What Remains: Cleo

Some people have passed on, and I think about it daily.

A wind chime on someone’s porch, a western movie, certain types of snacks, flowers dancing in the wind, and corny jokes only we understood

These are memories I share with a special loved one. I miss her dearly.

While missing her, I think of the people living whom I have grieved. Those that I chose to cut off due to constant disrespect and toxicity.

My ass cheeks can turn only so many times.

Through life’s challenges, I have discovered that healing is not an endpoint but a journey. I carry scars, but I also carry wisdom. During my healing, I realized that:

Blood is not always thicker than water.

Family can be chosen.

Love does not mean staying where you are unwanted.

“No” is a complete sentence.

And self-care must always come first.

Once, I lived seeking approval—wanting to please, to be seen, to feel loved. Now, it’s fuck you and the clique you claim. I’m releasing what does not serve me.

People have come and gone in my life. Some of the things I missed were their presence, while others were what I wanted their presence to be in my life. Either way, the ones who have transitioned stay in my heart, and those who are living are life’s reminders that some people are in your life for a reason or season.

Life is a roller coaster of emotions, and I want to spend my remaining days feeling happy, inspired, uplifted, and encouraged. I want to be around like-minded individuals. I want to sit on my couch and read books, enjoy the outdoors, experience the little things in life, and be fully present in the moment.

I don’t have children. The buck stops here. My written pieces and my treasures will be what remains of me.

I hope that what remains provides comfort, love, joy, and inspiration—just like they have me.

— Shared by Cleo