Filter Free

What does my face look like without a filter?

What do my words sound like unrefined?

I can tell you my body could be fitter, 

and my words are sometimes tined.

Most days however my smile shines bright

and I attempt to use my words to elevate others

But my smile eventually feels trite,

and kind remarks are rejected by angry mothers.

I shed the filters and try to uphold my self-confidence, 

and tell myself I am beautiful without them.

I know I have a good conscience and that

my strong heart, good will, and clear face shine like gems.

I don't want to be permanently filtered.

I don't want people constantly seeing an edited version of me.

Instead I'll leave them bewildered,

wondering how freeing filter-free can be.