After the smoke clears
I survey the damage.

Or rather the lack
Thereof.

My eyes have grown.
My mouth narrowed.

I'm all ears; all hands
Unclenched.

I've learned to appreciate
A hug from my father,

Felt just how well
My mother knows my pain

Without a single drop of hint.
Silence. Ah, the silence.

To do what-, when-, however I want.
The freedom of a King Size alone.

My God, the things I gained
In the fire.