Free to LiveMature

Treetops sway in the relentless winds. Their branches, dry from drought, bend and snap. The rough, grey clouds cast shadowy monuments of fear, rejection, and shame. Thunder BOOMS; lightning claps its hands, anticipating the fight. Still the tree stands, roots firm in their ways.

Then, all of a sudden - - pitter - patter.

The sky showers the barren. The tree soaks in health and strength as a gust of new hope blows in.

And after the storm, a still, small voice.

"You can be free."

And at that moment, "remaining tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom."

Sunshine penetrates the foliage with courage for a new beginning.

It is finally free.