Looked at my reflection unsatisfied,

The details of my insecurities weren’t classified.

I scanned my body up, then down,

Then I gazed into my 2 big gates of brown.

And through them I saw happiness through my memories,

But present day my looks hid behind these accessories.

These shallow attempts to protect my feelings,

Just so people who don’t even know me could find me appealing.

But I saw potential in myself,

No girl deserves to second guess herself.

Wipe off that makeup, tie up your hair!

A beautiful girl standing in the mirror, no one could compare.

I told myself “Maria, please don’t hide,”

I’ve always expressed myself and that cannot be denied.

I made my own kind of beautiful,

If you thought I was ugly you were either blind or delusional.

Your eyes cannot see the beauty within my heart,

I was painted by God’s brush, a true work of art.

My mom always said to people "judge less, love more,"

People who couldn't see my beauty could walk out that door.

Everything has beauty; some are too blind to see it,

I encouraged myself with a laugh and said “that’s the spirit.”

I remember the amounts of compliments I receive,

I’m beautiful in my own way, that’s something I believe!

It's okay that I'm not perfect!

My self-confidence will take effect.

If you tell me it can't, I'll show you how much it can,

Now I knew I had one more game plan.

Everyone will see my beauty and confidence emerge triumphantly,

And everyone who encouraged me will keep me company.

So now I look back at the mirror and let out a breathe of relief,

I no longer have to listen to those comments that once gave me grief.