journey

It's amazing really, what growing up does to you.  It doesn't promise to make you stronger, or more wise, or more careful about whose land (and heart) you're treading on. 

The road is there...we all have to walk it. 

And the baggage...it comes.  Every single little dirty, duct taped piece.

I've left a few of those pieces along the way...actually managing to discard that which I was no longer forced to carry.  And some have still remained.

But I'm trading in my long black veil....

and blame and shame...I'm letting you go, too.

i have paid my price.