"It is always worth the upheaval of the world for even a chance at a better life. "
I was sixteen years old when I heard those words, and they gave me the courage to do what I'd needed to do for four years -- escape. I'd been held against my will since I was twelve, and while I'd developed a strategy for escape, I was terrified of what would happen if I succeeded. How does a sixteen year old get along in the world, not knowing anyone, with no money, no resources, no one to trust? And I knew they'd come after me too, which they did.
But it's always worth the upheaval of the world for even a chance at a better life.
And my god, it was. It was worth every second, and it's still worth every second. Every sunbeam, every tickle of wind in my hair, every time I dance, or write, or laugh, or hold my daughter's hand and hear her laugh.
I still thank the man who said those words, though he'll probably never understand how much I needed to hear them.
His name is Nick, and he was just a half drunk college student talking philosophy to the nether that night. He'll always hold a special place in my memory, and every now and again I think of him and send a smile his way.
~ Anna