Darkness Crept In

"My dark days made me strong.  Or maybe 

I was already strong, 

and they made me prove it."

Emery Lord

Ten months ago, I relocated with my normal fears of transitioning.  Even when we choose to give up parts of our lives, it doesn't mean it is easily done.  I looked forward to living in Nashville, Tennessee, once again, recalling old friends, hang outs, and new beginnings. I felt certain as to how my life would unfold.

My projections, however, did not consider damaging tornadoes followed by Covid.  My personal property was housed in my new apartment, but I was residing with my daughter and her gracious family.  As the months passed, there were no opportunities to find old friends nor to meet and greet new ones.  Many of my favorite haunts had shut down and new adventures were put on hold.

Over the months, darkness crept upon me at unsuspecting times.  My kindred spirits lived far away and isolation began to challenge me.  Surrounded by books, nurturing my self, and writing were not enough to keep me afloat.  I finally learned to just sit with my self and ask, "What is it exactly?"  In time, answers became clear and I carried my rekindled light further into the darkness.  There is no way to totally avoid chaos, so it is best to recognize personal strength and be grateful. Continue to move forward.