Life is full of lessons and I've learned that you don't necessarily have to understand the reason, but rather, understand what you can take from what's given, what you can give from what has been taken and that even when you feel nothing at all, light can come from the most darkest of places. This book of poetry has been an outlet for all the challenges I have encountered throughout my time here. It highlights battles within the soul, emblazons fires that everyone has at some point thrown a match into; it brings you to levels that not everyone wants to revisit but most have navigated. It is meant to help others realize that amidst the shadows of life, amongst the fleeting moments of happiness, the gloom that often consumes us can actually be a light. It lets us know we aren't alone in our feelings and thoughts. That despite tribulations, we can come out on the other side with a clear vision of our dreams. This poetry book is one of those dreams. The first time you picture where you want to be and how you're going to get there, is the last time you look at your past as a failure and instead see it as preparation. All of life's lessons that are sprinkled with sweetness and bitterness propel us forward with an energy that is unique to each individual. As you read this poetry, the meanings behind each word, each phrase, is only significant because of your interpretation despite the deepest of passions they may have originated from in my life. I hope you enjoy the ice cream despite the brain freeze.