For in hope's absence, a miracle arrived

I have not led an ordinary life, nor a life that would suit everyone. I took great risks, but because I did, I also earned great reward. I found the way to show my true face freely, without fear. Because of this, I found true love.

Keep what you hold in your heart safe and strong.

Even the most straightforward of paths could turn out to be more complicated than it seemd at first.

How did you explain a thing it had not occurred to you to question? A thing you just knew, clear through to your soul?

How much easier my life would be if I did not love you! I thought. How much less painful, but how much plainer. How much less color there would be in the world.

My playing had called to another human being at last. Surely, she could be no other than my own true love. Slowly, I got to my feet. Speak to me, I thought. And as if she'd heard me, the young woman's lips parted and she spoke thus: Have you lost your mind?