Heart of Atlanta,

Your blood runs through my veins once again!

Encapsulated I was, a child in your warm and loving arms. I grew to understand rich, protected history within you. Grounded, I was shown deep roots of the tree planted in my great grandmother's honor. Solid, I walked on the brick pressed with my family's name. Inspired, I gazed upon the artwork signed by my companions. We have made our respective marks within you.

Yet, untethered was I. You may remember the pain as I sliced myself free of your grasp. I wish you had looked away as I allowed my once beautiful person to grow cold and sour. I watched your arteries drain into nothingness instead of allowing them to pour into me. I let you watch me whither away, convinced I was undeserving of your everlasting love. I rejected you, and I died. I had hoped you would just forget.

Yet you never wavered. Your planes flew, your cars traveled, your citizens marched, and your flowers bloomed. I your missing piece, so deeply embedded, your strength lifted me back to you. What a gift, to feel your life. Connected again to your beating heart. It is powerful and never ending like my mothers, I am ever grateful for you.