Epilogue

Approaching the depths of darkness,

I find a peace within –

A peace unknown but in this final hour.

Peace – once – unattainable.

It’s in this final hour I know

the life before me is unworthy of noting.

No success –

No ground-breaking achievements.

With this insight comes that peace

because, in spite of the absence of

accomplishment, I’ve done no harm –

I’ve simply been good to others.

To be good in spite of my flawed nature –

This is my success.

To live with a kind heart amid the hatred of my species –

That is my legacy.

To love those who’ve wronged me –

This is my contribution.

To acknowledge intrinsic value, even in the wicked –

That is my imprint upon humanity.

Knowing what I know,

feeling as I’ve felt,

and seeing my life in reflection,

I have but one regret –

Regret that I never knew

before this very moment

what really constitutes

success.

And even this regret fades as I realize –

I’ve received what most only dream of –

I’ve accepted myself as I am –

I’ve defined my success – and my failure

It’s in this I find my peace –

Not because I’ve, indeed, done nothing worthy of note,

and not because I’m unsuccessful in others’ eyes,

But because I have “failed,”

and failed – well.