I used to travel the world. I loved seeing the new sights, the old architecture, the different cultures, and enjoying the people.

I used to be fearless. I went after my goals with blind optimism. And I lived out quite a few of my dreams.

I used to be outgoing. I was even considered a social butterfly by all of my college peers.

I used to think I was meant for someone special and unique, someone appreciated for contributing some art to the world, as I would do the same.

I used to be a hopeless romantic who lived happily in the lonely present.

You used to be my light at the end of the tunnel.

Until you tore me down and constructed me to be dependent on you. And I obliged.

Unfortunately for you, I’m too independent. Luckily for me, I saw through the illusion.

You are dark masquerading as light. And you wanted nothing more than to destroy my beliefs, trust, and faith in my Gods and within myself.

And you won.

I may have no fight left, not today. I may not regain any spark for a while. But one thing I do know is that my roots run too deep for you to conquer me entirely.

And although I can’t seem to get my pure self back, and I can’t be that brave and open woman that I once was, I will fight until I find that taste for life and adventure again.

I may not feel it yet, and I may not ever find it soon. But there will be a day when my inner light will shine again without your interference.