Look into my eyes.

They say they're the window to the soul.

Can you still see me behind all the makeup?

I apply and reapply.

Tell me I'm beautiful.

Do you love me yet?

I slit my wrists and bleed dark lipstick.

I cry bronzer and highlighter.

Am I pretty yet?

I paint on my face every day.

Not enough, it's not enough.

More, I must put on more.

I'm sickened by myself.

I destroy all my palates and lip liners.

Be gone liquid foundation!

I don't need your validation.

I don't need you to tell me who I am.

Behind all this, I know.

I accept all my imperfections.

As I acknowledge them, they disappear.

It is only then that I see myself in the mirror.

Beautiful.

Confident.

Inspired.

Today I see myself, and all I can be.

My potential is unmasked.

I've come home again.