I watched her retreating figure with a mix of emotions. Part of me wished I could have reached out to her, shared my story, and perhaps, lit a path for her to follow. But I understood that her journey was her own to navigate.

Turning back to the sea, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude—for the scars that had healed, for the lessons I had learned, and for the wisdom that comes with age. I realized that my happiness was not dependent on others’ opinions. I was living my life, basking in the sun, and cherishing every moment with a heart full of self-acceptance.