Tease Me Once

by W. Winters

There’s a common phrase people like to say: “Blood is thicker than water.” Its meaning has been twisted over time to convince others that family is most important. More important than anyone else. Because family is blood. The quote it’s derived from entails the exact opposite: “The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb.” The quote is meant to strengthen the bonds of soldiers on the battlefield.

It’s painful to start over, but discomfort is part of growth.

I stare at my own face in the mirror until I look like a stranger. A beautiful stranger who could be anyone she wants to be.