I watch, a bittersweet smile forming on my lips, as she joins her fellow creatures in the dance of freedom. In that instant, I understand that my act of release is not just about setting her free but also about releasing a part of myself that's been living in fear of letting things go. Not just the bird, not just people, but my trauma. Maybe one day I'll figure out how to let it go. I know it won't be any time soon. I'm not that fucking naive.
