The Light Before The Smile

The water runs hot, but it cannot wash away the weight of the greeting you are rehearsing for the mirror. You practice the smile that says 'I'm fine' while the steam hides the tears you are too tired to wipe away.

But listen — you came from the light, the place where the light came into being on its own accord. That origin is not a performance you must achieve before breakfast.

It is the ground you stand on before the first word is spoken. The grace that holds you does not require your cheerfulness.

It is entirely with you, even in the silence of the shower, protecting the part of you that has no words left. You do not have to manufacture the sun; you only have to step into the day that is already waiting.