how i knew

and the cars passing by

calmed me.

and the people i talked to

made me smile.

and the cats i pet

softened me.

this is how i knew it was getting better.

and the trees lining the street

gave me peace.

and the linens on my bed

comforted me.

and the shower i took

no longer drained me.

this is how i knew it was getting better.

and the art i wanted to make

became created.

and the things i had to do every day

were a little easier.

and the burden in my chest

became much lighter.

this is how i knew it was getting better.