Every morning is a checklist

Making curls that appear effortless

Eyes that are bright, big, bold

Lashes stretched and curled—controlled

Skin is clear and just the right shade

With lips, painted red, that never fade

Over a smile, shimmering white

Dressed for the day with clothes tight

 

This is what we do

Each day, what we put ourselves through

This is what we wear

Then play it off without a care

This is what we are told: Perfection must be achieved

A woman being flawless is believed

 

So I’ve made a checklist of my own

One that I’ve followed as I’ve grown

Up in this society that tells me how to look

My self-confidence this society took

 

This new checklist says to love who I am   

Every misplaced hair and chipped nail on my hand

There’s no need for perfect clothes or make-up

When our hearts and personalities are who we are, summed up

 

My challenge to you is make a checklist of your own

So who you really are can be shown

An aim for perfection put aside

Just to show a love for yourself without pride