The epiphany, the moment of mental clarity that allows one to cross the line that separates what could be or should be and accept what is.

It is the turning point of the hero quest, for all that went before was but a prelude, the backstory leading up to the scene in which Hamlet putters about on the battlement muttering to himself, ‘To be, or not to be.’ Once resolved, all is action, steps taken to achieve a goal.

But first comes the resolve, a determination to take up the hero quest only the hero can make. The hero will find helpers along the way, much as Frodo Baggins did as he ventured forth to Mount Doom. Gandalf only placed the ring before him. Frodo took it up. Frodo had to take that first step. He and he alone had to sally forth.

The end of the quest is not the end of the story. It is merely where the hero crosses yet another line that may not be apparent at first. Only in time does the hero come to appreciate he or she has been blessed as few are, allowing them to enjoy a state of grace that allows them to look back and be at peace with themselves and their world.

No one here can sort you out. Some may serve as a spirit guide, others as helpers. A few kind hearts can provide a shoulder to cry on while there people like me who are standing at the door, ready to give the reluctant paratrooper a swift kick in his third point of contact in order to keep him moving.

Only the hero of your story, and your life, can determine what is right for him or her. Only they can take up the challenge before them and sally forth. But first comes resolve.

It is the way of things.

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From the ‘Legend of Alfhildr’ which will soon be available on Kindle;

Ever so gently Elvina whispered in her sobbing friend’s ear. “Your gods know who you are. Your friends know who you are. And I know who you are. The time has come for you to search your own heart and accept who you are. Only then will you be able to embrace the destiny that awaits you.”