After the flames died out, only the ash remained. Specs snowed down slowly onto my body as I stood in the barren remnant of my past. My burning eyes searched for anything salvageable amongst the wreckage, praying for a partly scorched photograph or even a burnt wooden beam yet only the ash remained.

Days cascaded into weeks and bled into months as I stayed stuck in stasis. My rage pummeled away a little of the residue. My morose dissolved some of the ruin. My joy made snow angels in the burnt dust. Yet it was my hope that whispered sweetly but firmly “My dear, enough is enough”.

I awoke the next morning to a rose-coloured dawn. Plush-painted clouds adorned the sky as I made my way into a village of possibility. I purchased brand-new pieces of home crafted from the strongest grade of stability available. I bargained for custom-made curtains sowed with the finest threads of peace. I stumbled upon a thrift store where I found hand-carved bits and bobbles made with authentic love.

I took each piece of my idealist future into my delicate hands. I felt the texture of each chunk, knob and segment as I slowly assembled my harmonious home. There were a few bumps and bruises during the construction process. Splinters of doubt pierced through my fingertips. Shards of insecurity sliced through my arms. With the back of my forearm, I wiped away the droplets of delay from my brow. My gaze determined to keep piecing together a life I could one day be proud of living.

I sit here now, in my serene salon contemplating all I’ve built. The structures that encompass me are sturdy and sound. The cushions are plush and comfortable. Each painting that hangs on the walls, is a cherished memory. Each bobble and knick-knack that adorns the shelves, is a friend. Though things can never be perfect. The fine particles of anxiety need a genuine wash and the cobwebs of uncertainty need to be dusted. I remind myself that routine maintenance is to be expected. As a cup of warmth brushes the proud smile on my lips, I drink in all the things I have accomplished.