After I returned form New Orleans life became a different flavor of coffee.  The darkness of suffering was ground into my soul, pouring out a rich blackness that before swam with sugar and cream. 

And to be honest; it was a difficult transition.  An almost unexplainable sense of hurt pervaded my soul and seeped into my day.  It sprinkled my tongue with anger and my mind with disillusionment.  I felt lost a lot.  I became afraid.  I looked around with frantic eyes. 

But today, even as clouds envelop the city, they evaporate from my heart.  Light streams in.  Hope sprays out in all directions.  

God is near.  I can feel it.  My eyes see the potential of each moment.  My ears hear a soft melody of laughter.  Each second life grows and death dissipates. 

I am thankful for change.  Progress is a reality. Transformation is temporary.  I believe that what is does not have to be.  What could be is only an attempt away.

And even though there is a darker tone and a richer taste to the flavor of my life, it only adds to the pleasure of each drink.  I am no longer the same.  I am better.