The Ugly Image

(The Ugly Duckling by Hans Christian Andersen)

The Duckling who grew into a swan,

Born ugly and weak

Then strong and pure

Or is it from his mind his self-image is drawn?

Perception plays tricks on the mind,

Not really ugly

And not really foul

For his head is what keeps him confined.

His heart hurts and hurts;

His mind plays tricks,

Doubt and fear,

“I am ugly” he asserts.

Time passes and he travels often,

New people

And new places,

When his heart finally softens.

He is only different because he is he;

They are they;

Life is life;

Self-love really is key.