Like a secret voice speaking straight out of my own bones--

[nimbusofherown]

"I took a
      deep breath and
                         listened
 to the
         old brag
                  of my heart.
I am, I am, I am."

"I thought I would swim out
until I was too tired to swim back.
          As I paddled on,
my heartbeat boomed like a
 dull motor in my
ears.

I am, I am, I am."