When I’m a tree I will stand for a thousand years. I will not question my reason for being, or the choice to grow tall on the side of a cliff. I will be neither proud nor doubtful when I’m a tree. I will be thriving and resilient. And I will be free.

I don’t want your kindness. I don’t need your patience. I’m not looking for a role model. Don’t give me a speech.

Amazing Grace was given me in moments of dismay, when friends were scarce, and skies were gray, and hope had gone astray.

Of all the gifts existence deigns upon us there isn’t one more precious to our kind than the misread and undervalued gift of freedom, a gift we’re blinded to when we are young.