all

"And when you get down to it, Lily, that's the only purpose grand enough for a human life. Not just to love -- but to persist in love." -August Boatwright, The Secret Life of Bees

It never ceases to amaze me how much my mother loves. I'm sure the majority of people will agree that a mother's love exceeds in strength and endurance over almost anything else in the world. It is a love that persists.

I realized as of late that I want it all. In the past, forgoing one desire for another seemed necessary, but for some inexplicable reason, a selfish inclination has bubbled to the surface. I want it all...

To explore unknown crevices of life. To laugh uncontrollably and with no restraint. To love persistently. To uncover hidden meanings in the smiles of babies. To drop from the sky with fear and relief coursing through my veins. To soak in as many sunshine baths as possible. To create. To swing from a vine with complete disregard to my age, sex or any social expectations. To spend a night atop a mountain with only my sleeping bag and the stars for comfort. To share these life excitements.

It might be asking for too much, but I'm not yet sure. I understand that big risks mean big rewards. The first step is to accept that you want what you want. Next step: how to get there... ?