A breath,
all in the room exhale.
The lights are bright,
but I've overcome my first mountain.
I followed the light.
I left my comfort.
I am here.

A breath,
then another,
quickly another,
after a night invested in lust.
Universal emotions overwhelming.
I love you.
I am here.

A breath,
entrapped within tears.
Darkness overcomes for months;
I understand the complexity of loneliness.
Happiness will not become of me again.
Trying to decide, why
I am here.

A breath
deep, drawn out.
My nerves frayed.
The questions infinite, challenging.
A strong handshake,
a salary.
I am here.

A breath,
caused by beauty.
Not aesthetic beauty, but beauty of love.
He gasps at the sight.
The one at the alter,
and the one holding my arm.
I am here.

A breath,
this time it is not mine.
Although through the tears and pain,
my breath is loudest.
Five fingers embrace one of mine,
a small squeeze that reassures, Mommy,
I am here.

A breath,
used to tell them I love them.
I am off to a new world.
My chest rises and falls one last time,
fear does not reside beside me.
I am here.