I haven't been normal for quite some time. This mirror only shows a reflection that I've been putting on; it doesn't really see the things that are inside. No one does. I don't even think I do if I have to be crushingly honest.

Water splashes in a rhythmic tune as the filter from my brother's fish tank cleans the water with a soothing hum. The puppies my mother and father died to have are in their crates right down the hall from me, groaning and waiting to be let out for their morning walk. Their stomachs could be growling as well for their feeding time is getting close. Warm air blows from the heater vents creating a light rustle through my hair, and buzz in my ears, but I'm cold. From the inside out and out to in again.

Tossing the damp wad of toilet paper into the waste basket, I flip the off light to the bathroom. Seeing as the sun is starting to rise, wafting pink with gold hues through my room illuminating the dust motes that momentarily make me want to sneeze, I begin surrendering to the cold mattress I call my own and pull the covers over my head.

Sleep comes somewhat fast, not like I knew it wouldn't. Though, maybe I wish it wouldn't. What would it be like to just lay in bed tossing and turning and thinking about the days events? Even though that would be a far out cry from what my norm is, I have a slight wonder. I really can't remember the last time I actually stayed awake in bed wondering what the next day would bring and what not. Or maybe not dreaming of the same things I dream over and over again. . .

The After Life.