It makes so much sense now that I look back on it.
I’ve always been that girl.
I allowed the world to tell me different.
But I remember now.

The way others intentionally withheld compliments,
cracked jokes on my physical appearance,
made comments to discourage me from thinking anything great about myself…

They saw what I didn’t see — my light, the star within me.
It was natural they’d want to dim it,
to feel better about themselves.

My self-esteem was crushed before I understood what it even was.
So, I never thought to question how I felt about myself,
or why I was afraid to shine my light with others.

I loved dancing and performing as a child.
I was in a dance group and in the band.
I never had a problem performing my talents.
Then somehow over time, I became this shelled version of myself.

It’s mind blowing now that I’m able to understand the memories and experiences from a healed point of view.
I allowed the world to dim my light.

But I have now found myself.
And I will no longer hide my greatness.
I will no longer live my life to be palatable to others.

I will live freely and boldly.
I am powerful. And I will live my life as such.