and there are days
where i make
love to myself.

after years of counted calories,
guilted binges,
and hopeful purges,
this $5
coral mirror is now
where self-love is made.

dilated eyes,
chills,
and butterflies:
this is progress.

i am unconventionally
gorgeous.
this is not arrogance;
this is forgiveness
at its most raw.

knock softly.

there is a nation
being reformed.
this door holds
important celebrations;
insecurities will remain
uninvited.

belly dancing till
i feel the breeze in
Alexandria
grab me.

i hold power in these
melting hips.