I HATED LIVING IN THE SMALL AND CLAUSTROPHOBIC atmosphere of my house. It didn’t feel like home anymore. felt an unwanted guest. hated being waited on all the time. that parents were so patient with me. did. That’s truth. They do anything wrong. just trying to help But them. And Dante too. myself for hating So there it was own vicious cycle. My private universe hate. thought would never be over. life get better. did better new casts. could bend knees. used Fidel another week. Then arm cast came off and use crutches. asked dad put in basement wouldn’t have look at stupid wheelchair ever again. With full hands bathe myself. took out journal this is what wrote: TOOK A SHOWER! was actually almost happy. Me Ari “Your smile back.” said. “Smiles are that. come go.” sore. The physical therapist gave me some exercises. Look me can move arm. woke up one day made way bathroom stared mirror. Who you? kitchen. mom there drinking a cup coffee looking over her lesson plans school year. “Planning future Mom?” “I prepared.” sat down across from her. “You’re good girl scout.” “You hate about don’t you?” “Why you say that?” whole thing scout thing.” “Dad ready go back school?” held “Yeah wear shorts every day.” She poured combed hair fingers. want haircut?” “No. it.” smiled. too.” We drank together mom. talk lot. Mostly watched through folders. morning light always then she looked young. really beautiful. envied had known exactly who was.