Self Awareness

My reflection used to show me

A young girl with long, dark hair

And brown innocent eyes,

Gleaming from tears, fear, and sadness.

A quiet reflection of the ordeals in my life.

However, life changed and so did my reflection.

My confidence grew with me and was

Visible to all those around me.

No longer did they see a scared girl,

I was now a strong, fearless warrior.

A warrior who didn’t run from battle,

But one who not only fought for myself,

But fought for those who couldn't.

They could now see the loving person that was

Hidden away in the chambers of my soul

That didn't come out for so long, I thought it was lost.

They now saw a leader who was not afraid

Of the obstacles ahead and overcame them.

They no longer saw someone afraid to get hurt

Because vulnerability is not always a bad thing.

I was no longer afraid to open up because

Beneath the surface there is much more

Than a girl with dark brown hair

And glassy brown eyes.

The features I have which were once

Used against me are the same features

And characteristics every girl wants.

It might have taken a while, but I have learned

To gain confidence as well as humility.

To be a strong role model for the young girls

Who looked up to me with so much joy wishing

They would be exactly like me when they grew up.

But they yet don’t know the struggle you

Must go through to find yourself.