(no subject)

[ofnovalue]

From: Anonymous
Date: April 17th

I know this may seem like such a trite and of little worthy regard given all that has happened over the last several weeks, but truly, I am a fool who has allowed their thoughts to be consumed with but one thing when I should be focused on my service here. Forgive this, and my fool's heart, but I feel as if I can no longer simply let this fester in my mind.




What does it mean if the very idea of love brings naught but profound pain? The sort that makes your chest ache tremendously, and your mind to burn as if buried in embers. When the very idea of it inspires tears, and no happiness can be found?

I can find none who know this pain. Am I damaged in some way? Is my mind and heart corrupted by a sort of blight we know not of?

Comments

[boneofsword]

You may have more courage than you give yourself credit for. You've spoken up already.

[Private]

[It's a photo of young quaking aspen tree, hiding between much older and taller trees. It's clearly a primaeval forest, though, not the one found on the Near Shore. Including the wildlife, for there's a wolf's snout peering from the foliage.]

I'm not sure if you're familiar with the aspen trees, or the various tales. Its leaves quake and tremble even when there's no wind, and the tree seems deceptively fragile. While its branches can break, the tree itself rarely does. In ancient times quaking aspens were associated with pain and suffering. Yet in my god's land this tree has been a tree of war, associated with autumnal solstice. Aspen tree is for him a tree of protection and courage, a tree that granted his kin shields that served them well.

[A moment later comes next message, and another photo, of the same wolf now enjoying caresses. It also shows that whoever took the photo has tanned skin and strong but gentle hands.]

Wolves here are friendly, and used to humans. They enjoy petting as much as dogs do, but are a bit shy.

[ofnovalue]

[ ... She isn't quite sure she understands. Not yet. But she appreciates the image, and the story, all the same. She's certain there's a metaphor here. She's read enough storybooks in her time to feel that was where this was going. ]

Tis a lovely image. Both of them.