I did it.

I walked away, left, abandoned

my old life

the one that wasn’t a life at all

One where survival was

and always was

All I could ask for.

Now with restraints puddled at my feet,

I stand tall on my own firmly planted legs.

I did it.

I chose me with few regrets.

Today I started out by getting coffee with Freddie Nechtow and Jen Stark. It was deep with delicious conversation. We covered all different topics and I felt deeply satisfied because of the company. We tried out a new place called Bob’s coffee.

After a fantastic time, I drove over to the China Palace where I spent lunch with Mylissa Buttram. We talked for over an hour. Mind you, I didn’t know her but by name before meeting her today. We dove in deeper than my previous conversation.

We talked about death, dying, cancer survival and cancer casualties. I learned more about support groups that deal with cancer. I was able to give out three business cards when some friends of hers showed up at the restaurant. She said that talking to new people brought her energy.

We discussed the Red Tent and our collective vision of which direction to go. We made another date for breakfast at the WaHo on a typical Monday so Freddie can meet her and talk to her about grief. I’m looking forward to getting to know her even better.

I can’t remember a time in my life where I’ve been happier. If I have, this happiness is the most complete I’ve felt in a coon’s age. I’ve been happy before, but this is different. I wish I had ample words to describe this feeling. I feel blessed beyond measure.