When I look in
the mirror
I see a woman
with
expressive,
golden brown eyes,
fair skin, & enticing
smile.
I see a wife
& mother who
has so much love
to give.
I also see a
professional,
one who works
hard &
is climbing the
proverbial
corporate ladder.
Then I ask
myself:
Why is it that in
spite of all
my qualities
& achievements,
there are times
when thoughts
of unworthiness
creep into
my mind and tell
me that
I’m not good
enough?
It is on those
days that I
can only see a
person who is
misunderstood,
unloved & flawed.
The inner connection
is broken,
the dense fog of
unworthiness,
creeps in, holds
on to me,
tight & unrelenting,
causing
feelings of frustration,
anxiety,
inadequacy,
almost total
breakdown.
The false image
of perfection
I try so hard to
achieve fades,
self-judgment is
harsh.
Then, like the
miracle of nature
that dissipates
early morning fog
through gentle,
warm winds &
a sun that shines
strong & steadfast,
I decide to quiet
the voices of
self-criticism & censorship,
I decide to listen
to my heart,
choosing to dwell
on love & self-respect.
The fog lifts.
When I look in
the mirror,
once again I see
the woman I am;
beautiful inside
as reflected outside,
willing to share
my love & happiness
with those who see
me in the same light,
with those who
accept me & my imperfections,
with those who
accept my humanness.
Once again, all
is well.
.
© Mildred
Santiago
