The Light Comes in Through the Cracks

Someone once told me, when you are faced with a situation, the first thing that runs through your mind is what society conditioned you to think. 

The second thing is what you actually think.

When I look in a mirror, my skin bared to the harsh light of the room and the scrutiny of my eyes, at first I see the things that my generation deems unfit in appearance.

I see the battlescars of my ongoing war with acne.

I see the stretch marks from where I let myself gain a little bit too much weight.

I see the tired bags under my eyes, the frizz of my hair, the dirt beneath my nails, an uneven tan.

But as I look again, unconsciously taking down any and all filters, my thoughts tend to change.

I see the light in my eyes, shining through my exhaustion to show pure joy.

I see my sarcasm portrayed quite clearly in the quirk of my maybe-too-thick-eyebrows. 

I see the curve of my lips, focusing not on the redness from my worrying teeth, but rather the tilt of my smirk as I face myself.

I see strength where society finds fault. 

For the world to see me as perfect, I would need make-up, a diet, a new wardrobe, and a few how-to books about keeping up appearances.

But for me to see myself as beautiful, I just need that second look.

And if you're looking for what I am with no filter, you'll just have to take my word for it. I'm beautiful, faults and all.