CUP OF JO...

In the past five years, this voice started as a small throb in my chest and with every passing day, it's become louder and louder...reaching such great heights of audio that thunderous horses's hooves couldn't match its decibels. Hear me now, it isn't the noise of my ego. It isn't the blended lies; coverups I used to tell myself or line of defenses met from habits formed long ago...it isn't a brain power that pushes a steady flow of analytical thoughts from one synapse to another, as if in a debate toss. I am not the prosecutor or the defendant. It is only one guiding voice. I recognize it as safe because my soul, my heart says it is.

I am free to follow it as I am free to steer myself to make a cup of tea. And I will. From now on, I will.

I smile at the little girl in curls laughing in the sun and twirling about. She receives me with such great joy, like a long absent warrior finally returning home. I swoop her up with a great embrace that reminds me of the love that has always been there. There's no outer search for it. No outer remedy. No external need for peace. I could be in a crowded atrium or stadium...and yet, the peace drapes over me like a comfortable blanket.

Whatever happens tomorrow, I will be okay. I am freed already, no matter what. I wear no shackles. There is no tether to the past. I look out now, and there are fields of bountiful green.

I wish this for you, my friend. I beg of you, with no ulterior intent, to follow your heart. No matter what fears; no matter what judgment; no matter past voices; no matter what circumstances. Rise, rise, rise-- to take the loving hand extended out within you. Intertwine your fingers together like a lover, like a friend, like family.

Once reconnected, everything will be still. Don't run, my dear. Stay with the quiet; with the solitude because you aren't alone. There are so many others who are with you. If desired, I'll supplicate you to be your true self. In that openness, may your honesty finally give you the shelter and home you've always wanted.

Your wish is your command.

If it isn't now, that is okay too. You have recognized each other and the blindfold is no longer needed. Though there is no exact road map, you will be brought back to this counsel fire again...your destiny is to reunite...forever in love.