Second Time Lucky

First time is free; most people get one by default. 

A quirk of biology.

Most of the time, it's exactly what's needed; life goes on as it should.

The whole body changes, matures, prepares; readies itself for the future.

A long and awkward procedure that defines the start and end of an era; the journey to adulthood begins.

Minds flooded with chemicals in quantities previously unthought of.

Changing the way they think, feel, react. 

Physicality changes too. Parts and organs owned since birth develop and bloom.

Through the awkwardness, through the changes, the individual blossoms.

 

But not always.

 

The first time may be free but it's not always the best fit.

A quirk of biology.

Those same chemicals that temper one may embrittle another; life falls to one side.

The whole body ruined, ravaged, wrong; intervention is required.

Branching pathways through medical minefields, political bollards and social blockades; all to start a journey.

Eventual rest for those who persist. Second time lucky.

The mind adapts, the body too but some changes cannot be easily undone.

Practice, surgery, protests; moulding the form.

Through the awkwardness, through the changes, the individual blossoms.

 

In the end, we all fly; some just need a little help in their chrysalis.