It would be so easy to stay the same. It would take no effort. No strength. No character. All I am already lies before me, and behind. All around me, a comfortable little nest. So easy to sink right down in the middle of myself, and be who I've always been. The challenge is the climb. Up and over me I go. Bolder and better and on to brighter things. I wash the windows of my soul and let the sunlight in.  Warming the few empty spaces, illuminating the forgotten fullness of my memories. I watch the simple beauty of dust in the sunbeams as I flip threw the albums I've filled. Not reminiscing. Learning. The text book of me. One snap shot at a time come together, no longer seeming random and unconnected. Just steps in a journey. I put away the past and realize there are no empty spaces, only room left to be filled. Room in my head for memories. Room in my heart for forgiveness. Room in my soul for divinity and guidance. I'm throwing open these windows and climbing out into the freshness and warmth of opportunity. Out and over the past, myself and my pain. Over you. I've tucked you into that extra space I have for forgiveness. I pray for you and the sad empty little shell of you that you're stuck in. I understand. I've been stuck, too. Act hard because it isn't as hard. Drink till it hurts because it hurts so much less. Never be alone because you are so very lonely. And still, nothing helps. The dark little spaces are empty and cold. The windows are dirty and the sun doesn't shine in. A closet full of skeletons is where the shelves full of memories should be. Standing still. Shrinking, sinking into yourself. Learning nothing and so unloved.