This is how it goes. First, the snatch of flame - the shaking, the breaking, the burnout, the death of a dream, the loss of a loved one, the line between before and after. What follows is the cooling of coals -waking that can only be done in the absence of a flame; it's impossible to sleep when you're freezing. In time, it is understood that ashes are of great value, and with courage, grief folds into gratefulness. In writing, it is my intention to bring forth that which heals. And so, I offer these words, words for when what you thought would never happen, happens; words for when you feel all you have is the remains of burning.