Another Christmas has fallen upon me and my journey through the valley is coming to an end. Though many years of cold and rainy weather have aged upon me and my body, my mind is clear and thoughtful. I remember everyone and every pain that haunts my past. I have fought through all the good and bad that has crossed through my life and into my heart. With all this I have gained courage to go on and face both friends and family and any storm that tries to shunt my voyage. As the hard snow falls upon me I can see the light in front of me. A few more miles and I will come home to my first Christmas and new life. --J.P. Mayes, 2000