I have never been the woman
Society would call "beautiful"
I am far too plain for that word,
with my imperfect skin
and my crooked smile.
my breasts,
(or my body,)
will never grace
a magazine cover
but they served a much higher purpose.
They have fed my children
comforted their tears,
and many a weary heart.
My stomach bears the scars
and the war wounds of birth
and my hips are testament
to late night dinners and not
enough time for a gym.
My thighs betray me
and refuse to comply
with the standards of the jean industry.
but they are warm, and soft
And safe enough for a nap,
and nimble enough to wrap
around a lover's waist.
No, society would never
call me "beautiful"
But their definition is far
too limited to encompass
everything I am...
©Natalie Simmons for Vivid X Photography (Say Cheese)
12 comments:
Oh Max,
You are one of the most beautiful women I know... for all of the reasons you listed here and so many more. This poem is so perfectly beautiful, yet it doesn't begin to describe the beauty you possess.
You have such a beautiful heart, one that has experienced pain but is still tender enough to allow someone in. You have been hurt by those you loved... those who were supposed to love you... and yet you continue to allow yourself to love others.
Your confidence and strength are inspiring (truly), and you are more graceful and patient than I think you realize. A most beautiful woman whom I am so fortunate to call my friend.
And as for your exterior... I know I have commented on a self portrait in the past.
This is such a perfect poem, my beautiful friend.
Screw society! They're clueless! You're beautiful!!!
OMG! Laena..did you say SCREW??? LOL.
Thank you, lovely, for the wonderful words. You paint me in a brighter light than I deserve ;-)
Thank you, anonymous. I understood what you meant, but I am always uncomfortable with that label, in whatever capacity it is intended.
And yes, content removed to keep the peace.
Is this an up-to-date photo? You've seen mine. I'll wait to comment when I know the true answer. No lies
I believe it was taken in June or July of last year, maybe earlier. But definitely in 2010.
...only the light in which I see you.
And yes... yes, I did say screw. There a lot worse words I could have used ;)
Laena, you always make me smile.
Anonymous,
That was an amazing comment, and you very much understand why I didnt share it. To answer your question. Yes. Please.
Beautiful poem. Needs to be published in something that women read. They'll look away from whatever they're reading at that moment and say, "Whoa! This woman speaks for me!"
Thank you, Mac! I've been trying to comment on your stories, but the system keeps saying I don't have permission :-(
WTF??? I'll look into it!
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