I used to be from riding my bike at night with my family,
to the gravel road that’s established beneath me,
to speeding in the ambulance, hearing the whistle of the sirens made my eardrums erupt.

To now being healthy,
not letting my concussion get in my way.
and from my mom telling me, “you can do it.”

I used to be from feeling empty and failing tasks I tried,
the bickering reverberating throughout the house.
Siblings making fun of me....

To now going on night cruises on the pontoon boat after dinner with my family.
Watching the sun tiptoe on the ripples
and getting lost and vitality forget.

I used to be from the family connected,
Playing Monopoly on family game nights or watching Despicable Me.
Relaxing on the couch with blankets and pillows, enjoying each other’s company.

To now joining sports like sailing, racing on weekends with 10 other sailboats.
Dad working an hour and a half away from home,
changing and the family’s presence gone.

I used to be from trying to fit in like my classmates,
feeling like a follower and not one of my own
and feeling lost, not even knowing who I am.

To now being on my own,
being the person that I want to be,
strong headed and standing up for myself.