A Poem for C

You're beautiful, despite your flaws, just the way you are

Let go of thoughts that cross your mind and make you feel subpar

I know sometimes it's hard to feel the beauty that's inside

You have those days of too tight pants and hips that feel so wide

I've been there standing, scrutinizing every inch of skin

And thinking I'd be happier if only I were thin

Through all the countless moments that I looked into the mirror

I never seemed to realize the reflection was of fear

The girl I'd grown to hate so much and looked at with displeasure

I presumed was bound by flaws of inch and pound and measure

I think about the moments that I spent on vanity

All all the times I lost the chance to make a memory

Of times I spent alone and sad, sinking in my pain

Tormented with distorted views that fear would ascertain

Looking back, I see it now: my insecurity

From chains of imperfection, I am slowly breaking free

Don't lose yourself to feelings that are formed within self-doubt

Reject the cookie-cutter mold society set out

Stand up and shout; You're made to live a life out in the sun

Don't hide amongst the shadows, for that's all be said and done

You're beautiful, within your flaws, just the way you are

So don't give up, let go of thoughts that make you feel subpar

-C. O'Connell-