This is, in the purest sense, a story. It is not intended as a confession. It is not intended as a testimony. It is not even a secret revealed. It is a story. And like all stories, there will be something of value to you in it- though I truly doubt I have any idea what that will be. Perhaps it will be a few hours of escape from your own life; an opportunity to become other than yourself. Perhaps it will simply be one line, one scene, you identify with and that sparks in you the moment of recognition; “ah, I know what it is to be there.” Or perhaps it will be an aching sadness that stays with you for the rest of your life, and follows you through sun and shadow. And, let it be said, that yes, I do believe sadness is a thing of value.