When I was young there must have been a time when I thought that I was okay, by the time I came to you, I was a scared, little 54 year old, to timid to own myself.

Not sure why, but so alone.

You dug through the denial, selfishness, anger, and fear. You put yourself into the muck, ugliness, and depression.

After bringing the little boy to the light, you said he wrote something beautiful.

You said you were proud of him. I looked around, and saw I could be proud of myself.

You said you were inspired by him. I feel inspired when I look at the sky, and reach for it.

You said you were amazed. I am amazed myself by all the love there is to give, and receive.

By your acceptance you encouraged him to reach out. I grasp that lifeline today, and pull myself out of a pool of despair, into an ocean of love. No longer isolated amongst the human race.

Now I walk the streets, work, home, and feel the connection.

I hold others, it reminds me to hold him.

I love others, it comes from loving him.

I feel okay, and beautiful today.

Thanks for reminding me.

For CHS, and Lenore.