Crow’s Nest

For the last 2+ years, that task has fallen upon me, holding myself, as I navigated forward, into a new chapter.

Today, it’s still my task, alone.

Somedays, the wind blows just a certain way, and my body is twisted so that I am reminded of him, his arms and body, and the way he had the perfect hug when I was needing support.

I have yet to make a full and uncompromised peace agreement with the fact I still have a space in my heart for the boy. While the ache rolls in and out like waves, thankfully, the gyre is widening, and those moments of sadness are not as long, as intense, or as detrimental to my overall wellbeing.

Tonight, he’s on my mind, and there’s a heaviness in my heart.

Tomorrow will be lighter.

Genuinely happier in my body.

We have to give a shit.

Indeed, I celebrated my independence.

Noticeably, when I’m out there, I am much happier and contented with my physical self. The inner critic goes silent. The forest just accepts me for who and what I am, no matter what.

Rooster Rock State Park for Juneteenth.

Yes.