I don\'t know when the change came for me
It\'s not like a date you can mark on the calendar
With little still to prove to anyone,
the edges are worn now, smoother
The change, I think, came from living
and learning from all the mistakes and battles,
as well as a few skirmishes of the soul
I cherish all the ribbons awarded me,
secretly displayed on my heart
Now I can see diamonds on the water
I feel the sadness of boats, aground at low tide,
pleading for the water’s quick return
so they can fulfill their purpose again
I know now the sacredness
of every new morning granted,
and appreciate the lessons of hurt
In all its’ forms and incarnations
This awareness keeps the venom at bay,
giving me the choice to not drink it down
At least not enough to kill me