Can we celebrate the things that end

And feel the joy of closing the book

On the things that bring harm and weirdness and solitude

Without the urge to apologize

For walking away or saying no or giving up?

Yes, I think we can celebrate

The end of shame, and the end of sorrow and the end of abuse

Without moralizing and justifying and negativity

Because pulling yourself from the river

Or covering your face from the sun

Or putting on a coat in the storm

Is an act of self-preservation

That is merciful and loving and kind.