I no longer wish to be rescued, for I am capable of rescuing myself.

No longer do I seek a champion, for I have learned how to fight my own battles and slay my own dragons.

Still, a hero may ride through the long dark night – but not as my sole source of solace. They come as allies. Together, we fight.

My tears, no longer a bid for pity, have become a pure release of grief and pain; serving their intended purpose to cleanse and water my heart in preparation for new love, new hope, and new joy.

Today, there are tears.

Tomorrow, seeds of future endeavors shall germinate in the fertile ground of my dampened spirit, taking root and springing forth into the light of the world in this new season. These seeds, which could only be gathered in the dark night of my soul, will become my love, my hope, and my joy.

***