When it hits your body like a wave crashing against the shore.
When you finally step out of the fog.
When you can barely hold yourself in your seat the moment you see it.
When the butterflies making a home in your belly dissolve like vapor in the sun.
When it feels scary, but doable.
When you’re sober.
When someone you trust reminds you that you can.
When your spine tingles with delight and magic.
When your smile pushes its way across your face.
When you are safe enough to do so.
When you lose control and can be held through it.
When you fling your head back, laugh, and clap your hands.
When your pelvis, jaw, or fists soften.
When it all finally makes sense.
When nothing makes sense but you can accept the madness.
When you know you’ll make your ancestors proud.
When you’re doing it for your kids’ kids.
When Truth slices you open like a hot knife on butter.
When you can no longer say NO.
When your MAYBE was just an excuse.
When it’s time, even if it takes a million years.
