Cassandra in Reverse

by Holly Smale

One of us has gone insane. Judging by today, it’s me.

don’t understand it, but there’s just something in me that knows how to stand still when the earth shatters.

Because if things can be broken, then things can be changed; and if things can be changed, then it stands to good and logical reason that they can also be fixed.

But that’s what you’re supposed to do with magical power, isn’t it? You’re supposed to do something extraordinary for the people you love.”

Time is the invisible thread that weaves our stories together. And sixty seconds can change everything.

I don’t think we talk enough, as a species, about how ridiculously difficult it is to make basic conversation. People act like it should be fun, but it isn’t.

Love is a courageous thing to pursue, and to me Eos represents hope, and resilience, and light in the darkest hour. She represents the strength to keep trying, even when you know you’re doomed. She represents new beginnings and refusing to accept defeat. She also represents the ability to change your husband into a cicada when he gets very old and kind of annoying. What could possibly be more inspiring than that?

Honestly, I think I can take changing the universe in my stride as long as nobody screws with my bedroom.

I suddenly realize: I’m not traveling through time to undo the things I’ve done wrong or the decisions I’ve made. I am trying to undo myself.

I get caught up with trying to read all the music around me instead of one note inside myself.”

The full truth is not easy or comfortable; it is often far safer to construct an alternative that keeps everyone happy instead. Especially when it’s the story we’re weaving for ourselves.

Time is fragile; for every sweep of the broom, there are consequences.

And I suddenly wonder why we put so much store in words, when they can mean so incredibly little.