To everyone in the room, she seemed like just a normal girl wearing Vans, blue jeans, and a red hoodie. But hers was an appearance intended to blend rather than deceive. She once wanted to disappear.

But today was different. Anticipation replaced self-pity. Excitement replaced self-hate.

Like an emerging butterfly, she shed her restraint. Off slipped her shoes. Her coat hit the floor. She stepped forward. It was her time. She held her breath.

Their smiling exchange turned to tears. Her hard-fought transformation, complete.

Welcome back beautiful girl.

Welcome back.