For the first time in a long time I believe I experienced raw, uninhibited joy. Not sure where it came from, as the thoughts preceding this resembled nothing close to it.

Honestly I think my body forgot how pure happiness felt because it wasn't sure what to do. It was like Jack Skellington marveling at Christmastown and wondering, "What's this? What's this?" My heart hurt a bit, similar to a muscle you haven't exercised in ages. I couldn't contain it and teared up, lest I spontaneously combust.

A crooked, tired smile crossed my lips as I drove home on a semi-melted snowy I-80 West. Feelings don't fade, and this was something I needed to know still lived within me.

Everything will be OK. I will forgive and be free. God it feels beautiful.