Slow and Steady

I'm completely awed by the little community I'm privileged to be a part of.

The love, acceptance and understanding reaches a rare depth - one I am ever thankful for.
Most do not know the pain I've experienced, and I am not aware of theirs either.
But I do know that I wouldn't have made it through the times I have without their support.
My weakest, darkest moments couldn't have been conquered without knowing they believe in me.
We laugh together, hurt together, wonder together and love together.
I know of nothing more meaningful to me. It is beauty in its most raw form.

Often I cry after spending time with them. Cry because its beautiful, they're beautiful, and because I am beautiful. Cry because of the things I know they're going through. Cry because I hurt - and spending time with them gives me the strength to finally face those pains.

We're all a bit jagged. We bump into each other's soar spots, we have off nights - but we genuinely care about one another and care about learning how to show it. I love the moments when I can listen and share life with them. When I can connect deeply to them.

I'm still afraid. And I know some of them are too.
But the beauty helps heal the hurt and drive away the fear.

Thank you.