Should

The water had been growing colder and colder as she cut through its black depths. She could see that she was approaching a strange light. It was almost as if she was sensing the light rather than seeing it. Some previously unknown sixth sense revealed itself to her. Now, as she began her final approach, the water started to warm. The pressure of the depth released and she could visualize that the light was actually coming from a very specific point. She reached out with both of her hands and tried to grasp it. Her hand passed through and she found that nothing was there.

That morning she woke with the knowledge that life was her choice. She wasn't like the birds because she had no set path - no pre-destination. She could act as she wished and become as great as she determined. She could change her mind. There was no "should," no "supposed to." She realized that searching for this elusive should would only lead her on a desperate journey through illusion.

She leaned back and inhaled a long, slow breath. She closed her eyes and cleared her mind. This was what freedom felt like.