battling alone

i am ashamed to say that i have only started to fully appreciate the normality of people who surrounded me.

to all the friends and family back home who kept me sane and safe...
ruby, ernie and philip; my three voices of reason, realism and encouragement.
i wish you were all portable sized so i can carry you around in my pocket.

i know i will somehow survive, but it'll be a very lonely battle.