My Waterfall - Christi Wildman

1. [hidden river]
2. For much of my life, the river was hidden behind the trees. The current just pulled me along, as I moved forward in ignorant bliss.
3. [river coming into view - with the rapids]
4. One day, rocks started showing up in the river - and the water started getting rough. The current got stronger and stronger - until there was no way to escape.
5. [crap apple tree in bloom]
6. But, there was one bright, flowering promise of fruitful outcome.
7. [rocks before the waterfall]
8. The rocks were big, and bashed me around, and around - and there was no way to go, but down.
9. [Center water fall]
10. I fell, and plunged into the water below, and swirled around for a while - but was pushed back up into the calm area of the basin.
11. My Choices [3 birds]
12. #1 As I gained strength, the updraft of the water taught me to fly.
13. #2 After resting from the trauma of the fall, I chose to dive into the rough water to understand it.
14. #3 And when I was ready, I could dive in, and gather sustenance, and soar out to share it with others.
15. The rest of my life: [the falls]
16. There are several sets of falls, and several hidden things that I have to look forward to - but I know that each Spring, the crab apple tree blooms, and each summer, it bears fruit. I will survive the fall, and I will gain strength from the water washing over me.
17. And I will soar, with strength and character, and the ability to help others learn to fly.