Out on a Limb

by Hannah Bonam-Young

And, like my mother, I’m far too softhearted. Often too eager to see the best in people. Too attached to leave when I should. Too scared of being alone.

The cuddles, the warmth, and the sanctity of loving someone more than myself.

This isn’t going to be a game of hide-and-go-seek father. You want the baby? You also have to be there for the kid, the teenager, and the adult too. Understand?”

A deeper part of me realizes, too, that I needed Bo. Someone who, from the moment I stuck out my hand, has understood me at a fundamental level that many people cannot. Someone kind, compassionate, hard-working, who believes in me.

Perhaps that’s all Bo and I are. Two people leaving behind the worst, looking forward to the good to come.

Accepting that this is the best thing that could have happened to us. To get us out of our own personal dark spots. To give us purpose. To find each other.

“So he was a skater boy?” “Yes.” “Did you say See you later, boy?” I groan into my palm, smiling. “Avril Lavigne would be so disappointed, but no, I did not.”

I can tell life has not been easy or always kind to you, but you haven’t let it turn you hard. Not like a stone. You became like water. You move with it all. You’re soft…but powerful.”

“You’ve seen me. Understood me like I’ve never been understood. And I see you now too. I see how truly lovely you are. More importantly, I believe it. With everything inside me, I believe you’re going to be gentle with my heart.”