I once told my mom

in front of the bathroom mirror

that there was not one part of my body

that I really liked

Not my small “Chinky” eyes,

that disappear when I smile

Not my dry, rough hands,

filled with calluses

from years of gripping my pencils incorrectly

And definitely not my curveless figure,

short with broad shoulders,

looking brolic when climbing out of the pool

My mom was surprised

and joked that her and my dad’s genes

did not satisfy my aesthetic desires

And while I know I should appreciate

all that they have given me

Maybe her words were true,

that I really did wish for better genes

that would make me taller, skinnier

Prettier

But people always said that beauty is only skin deep

so I tried and tried

to think of something good about me –

my personality, character –

that I could share

I’ve come up with one

that everyone can do

but I’ll use it anyway

I see myself as a good listener,

someone who people can share their problems with

Be it complicated family situations,

arguments between friends,

or even relationship crises

I will listen

Helpful advice may not be returned

but I know how meaningful a person’s presence can be

when one is feeling down, depressed,

Lonely

So I may not be attractive,

may not be the nicest person in the world

But in times of need,

come to me,

and for you,

I am all ears.