learning to walk...

for the past three years, i have preached at the top of my lungs, to anyone who would listen--how can i walk alongside someone if i cannot walk alone.

i've quoted and lived by the words of great women who were independent thinkers, feminists, rule breakers--women i respect. their words offered me strength through overwhelming self-doubt.

but, what do you do when you've accomplished a goal? what do you do after you've reached the peak of mount everest? faced your greatest fear? become comfortable in and accepting of your skin?

i believe you can continue to grow-it never has to end. it's not necessary to carry the torch of one word, the one point, and never grow beyond it. there is something else just beyond... we are the sum of our parts, our experiences, and we are beautiful for it.

i've looked in the mirror and looked my fears directly in the eye. i am stronger than they are. i am more than doubt, more than desire, more than independence, more than hope. through the extremes of my heart, i've found the comfort of my soul.

i said, how can i walk alongside someone if i cannot walk alone.

today, i realized, i am ready.