I first drew this figure, initially an anthropomorphic representation of my depression, in 2013. She was the personification of so many things I hated about myself, with long, sharp, claw-like hands that weren’t good for much besides hurting. Over the years, it has been therapeutic to draw her in situations, feeling how I felt. Now, she does all sorts of things. She learned how to shapeshift and have a knowing twinkle in her eyes. She graduated from college. She comforts, prys open things sealed shut, and finally, stands alongside me to chat.