Once upon a time, I was a child. I do not begin in the middle of my life, as Dante began his Inferno. Rather, I return in order to look forward. I say goodbye in order to move on. How human was Lot's wife, to look once more behind, as we often do to orient ourselves, so that we may take confident steps towards what lies ahead. What burdens do I carry, that I mark upon paper and show you now? I am no beast of burden. I shall be free to dance, and love, made stronger from the shame that I discard, like old clothes that did not fit. The monster is out from its maze, and lo' it is gentle.