Grateful

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.