You think I'm all about you. I'm not. You think you're the driving and primal force behind me, the focus of my life. That's a lie. I was being other before you, and I will continue after you pass. You are me. I am not you.

I don't need to hide behind you. I don't need to pretend because of you. I don't need to lie, to cheat, to pretend that I don't desire, sometimes, because you think it's thrilling or exhilarating or that the world would come crashing down if I enjoyed myself and enjoyed life.

There is joy in the leaves which blow from the trees.

There is laughter in the grass that sways in the breeze, be it an zephyr or a wintry gale.

I have joy.

I have laughter.

I have PEACE.

And I don't need you.