Acceptance

We were talking about lessons and losses. 

We came from the same background, from the same area - and I always assumed that we would have similar vices, similar turbulences. 

It was the obvious shock in his face, in his eyes when I told him about my struggle in the early parts of last year, and despite the story being told and retold over and over again, I was still surprised at the lump in my throat and the tears stinging my eyes. 

I have still not forgiven myself. 

"It's okay," he said. "It's a reminder to you, to become stronger - and a reminder to me to choose the paths I may be able to avoid." 

And it was the first time that I had thought that my pain could also serve as a warning to others.