She seemed fragile like a moonflower – destined to bloom for a single lovely night, and then to fade and fall.

We cannot know the future. All we can do is face it bravely. We should take heed of those we love and respect. But in the end, we make every decision alone.

I had grown up. I had learned that being a woman was knowing when to stand firm and when to compromise. I had learned to laugh and weep; I had learned that I was weak as well as strong. I had learned to love. I was no longer a rigid, upright tree that would not flex and bow, even though the gale threatened to snap it in two; I was the willow that bends and shivers and sways, and yet remains strong.

Water and stone Flesh and bone Night and morn Rose and thorn Tree and wind Heart and mind

She went on because there was no going back.

Breath of the winds; dancing flame; peace of the earth; song of the waves.

In all experience, there is something to be learned. In deepest sorrow, wisdom is found. In the well of despair, hope rises.