“When I opened my eyes and saw you, I knew I was safe,” she told me with a smile. Was she? I felt like a coward. Caught up in a past trauma.

Both of us struggled with knowing how to love ourselves when no one else wanted to. At least no one we longed for.

I don't know you, but if I tell this tale, it might as well be the truth. At least to the point where you can understand me--and you.