His features softened and gave me a nod of realization. “You’re really messed up.” Then, he extended an arm out and pulled me in. “He really did a number on you. You always think you have to change yourself because something went wrong… Just be yourself…”
He wrapped his arms around me; slowly tears started forming and spilling over my cheeks. Gratitude and relief rushed over me like a wave overlapping my entire body. My limbs folded tightly against my chest; trying to grasp and take control of anything that could still harm me.
The chilled air in my dark living room was not cold anymore. The warmth from his acceptance gave me a familiar and loving feeling: home and self-acceptance. I relaxed and let him catch me.
The Bolt Magazine 