The Sun Rising Within You

The mirror catches you before the world does. You force the corners of your mouth up, rehearsing the lie that you are fine, because the truth in your own eyes feels too heavy to carry out the door.

But the rising sun does not ask you to perform. It simply arrives.

It shines on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, guiding feet that are still trembling into the path of peace. You do not have to manufacture the light before you step outside.

The tender mercy of God has already come to you, like a dawn that breaks whether you are ready or not. The smile you wear is a shield, but the light underneath it is your skin.

You are not walking into the day alone. The sun is already rising within you, waiting for you to stop hiding and simply breathe.