With each step,

each crunch,

each sliver of light

through the trees,

she felt herself unravelling.

The fist in her chest

loosened.

A breath entered.

Understanding.

Acceptance.

The texture of life

met her skin,

her lungs,

her eyes,

yellow butterflies,

cicadas,

the warm summer air.

She sat with her pain

as a mother with her child,

offering herself

the kindness

she gave so freely to others.

She laughed

when laughter rose,

sang

when the song spilled,

let the tears fall

and be caught in love.

Surely this is richness.

Surely this is life.

Hands steady with memory,

able again

to hold a cup

for another.