And when I open my eyes, the storm wanes. The rain slows to a patter until all that’s left of it is what clings to the salty air. The clouds part, and the sunshine reflects off those lingering droplets, splashing a rainbow across the sky as the waves die down, until they’re nothing but the gentle lap of the water kissing my toes. It feels like putting one foot in front of the other, slow but certain, knowing that I am strong enough to survive anything this life lays at my feet, because I have survived what was meant to break me beyond repair. It feels like water surrounding me in a warm
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