In some parts of the ancient world, the hawk symbolized the sun. Back when I got this, I figured if I always had the sun on me, I wouldn't be afraid of the dark

To find that place between what I want and what I think is wise.

How can you fail a test you aren't allowed to prepare for?

I have done bad things. I can't take them back, and they are part of who I am. Most of the time, they seem like the only thing I am.

I look older. Maybe it's the short hair or maybe it's just that I wear all that has happened like a mask. Either way, I always thought I would be happy when I stopped looking like a child. But all I feel is a lump in my throat. I am no longer the daughter my parents knew. They will never know me as I am now.

If Eric thinks I did something right, I must have done it wrong.

And now that you are out? How does the world seem to you?" he says. "Mostly the same," I say. "People are just divided by different things, fighting different wars.