There were times when I wished 
to un-see, un-feel, un-know 
something 
gruesome, ugly, painful, unpleasant. 
I wished to have a thicker skin,
so that things would not hurt me;
would bounce off me like I had a protective shield.
Now, I am thankful...
To have eyes that see and emotions to feel
and to be changed
by all that I experience.
Through all that I experience each day,
I. Am. Changed.
I am free to act (or not) 
and to do or be (and become)...
Each day I am braver, 
more willing to see and feel and know...
and for that...
I am grateful. 
 
