For Judy

[fatalismnot4me]

My flame has been burning small lately, from both ends -- tempting, daring, charging to meet in the middle. I'm darkly afraid my flame will burn out and I'll have to be born again from the ashes.

I'm alive. I'm hanging on, even if my fingers are slipping. I haven't forgotten you either. I read what you write, but in my state, nothing I can say will be of merit.

I will return, and soon.