you are perfect (as is)

I spent the weekend at my parents' house, going through old photos and favorite childhood books and toys. It's amazing to see myself come full circle: from who I was as a child to who I have become. Our essence is in us, and then, where does it go? I believe, for most of us, it gets lost for awhile in distractions of "shoulds". I have had to work hard at dropping these "shoulds" and embracing my essence.

From this vantage point, I can easily say, it's been worth every step.