The Mirror's Lie

Dear Delyara, I’ve spent more time hating my reflection than I have enjoying my life. I’ve counted every wrinkle, every soft spot, every "flaw" as if they were sins. What a waste of a miracle. This body has survived accidents, heartbreaks, and years of my own neglect, and it’s still here, breathing for me. I’m writing a letter of apology to my own skin. I am done apologizing for existing in a body that isn't a filtered photo. I am leaving the scale and the mirrors here. I am beautiful because I am alive.