As I looked in the mirror, I began to hear Insecurity speak again

Oh, Simone, why does your hair always look so frizzy and untamed?

You eat like a cow so why are you so skinny?

Your nose is too wide, you might want to consider a nose job when you’re older...

Your skin is always oily, pound on more foundation

My mom always told me to say to myself “I am beautiful”

But whenever I did, Insecurity spoke over me saying:

“That’s just something parents are supposed to say to their children, don’t believe her.”

This year changed me

I wore my hair natural

I ate what I wanted to eat and wore what I wanted to wear

I went without makeup, embracing my brown skin

It was as if the year cast a spell on Insecurity, muting her for eternity

Then it replaced her with Confidence

The sun dried my tears and cast a smile upon my face

A smile that wasn’t forced, a true sign of happiness

Every day Confidence spoke to me

She said:

Oh, Simone, I love the way your curls bounce in different directions like glorious springs!

You could be a model too! Show off your long legs!

You are perfect the way you are, a beautiful, confident, black girl!

Take that makeup off and show everyone your natural beauty, Simone.

Speak, let your voice be heard, you matter.

Last year, Insecurity got the best of me

But this year, Confidence brought the best out of me