I kept all these feelings bottled inside because I wasn’t bold enough to express them to anyone. But I’m sure words weren’t needed as my attitude and body language spoke much louder anyway. There was no joy radiating at all.

I was beside myself. I looked in the mirror and suddenly saw someone I didn’t recognize. Who in the world is that? From that moment on, I started on a journey that was dark and painful, yet simultaneously freeing and joyful.

Am I the only one that loves the smell of something new? There’s just something about it. Maybe it’s the reminder that something new has not been previously tampered with or occupied. Or perhaps it’s the opportunity to have a fresh start.