"After that things were steadily easier but not easy, as we were pushed through all the inner circles just as rapidly as we could take it; Michael knew that we needed help and wanted to get us into the safety and peace of the Nest.  So when it came time for our Sharing-Water, I was still unable to discipline myself without constant help.  I knew that I wanted to be received into the Nest - once you start, there's no turning back - but I wasn't sure I could merge myself with seven other people.  I was scared silly; on the way over I almost begged Sam to turn around and go home."