The one that got away

Every now and again it comes back to me.
Uncontrollable nostalgia. A thousand scenarios playing at once. 
Feelings long neglected.
All flowing back. Love. Confidence. Pride. Strength. Limitless.

Nostalgia is a tricky mirage in the arid desert of self compassion. Takes you in on false promises, only to break you a little further.
Beware of that dog. Keep your distance, Prudence. It barks louder that you can hear.

And yes, you might have lost, you abandoned it.
You cannot retrieve it. You cannot rewind. Retreat. Reverse. Undo.
Too much time has passed.
But today, you have more. Different, maybe. But more.
You can embrace. Rebuild. Improve. Adjust.

Just don't let go.
Keep it close. In those old treasure chests you keep away from everyone, especially from yourself.
It can still feel your pulse, pounding.