My life was a fog of despair; I had lost the ability to function, my trust and spirit entirely broken. I had forgotten who I was, realizing in retrospect that my complete disintegration was necessary for me to finally wake up. My ensuing, lengthy quest for self was a truly rewarding experience. I have now found my authentic self and the courage to emerge from my shell, ready to live freely and fully. One chapter has closed, and though the road ahead is long, I am finally charting the course for my future.