... they are. [and there's something a little firmer at that - coupled with just a splash of worry] But... I also know that I have to make choices, and I have to move forward. I can't be the person I always was - who either clung onto blind absolutes, or couldn't make a choice because I was so caught up.

[at least now, he seems to have grappled enough with the shades of gray in the world. sort of. there's still a lot that he struggles with but.]

.... sometimes things have to bend a little, before they break.

[he'd rather adjust and compromise than shatter.]