"You're a giraffe."

But I like my long neck-- the way it's slender and strong.

I like the way my legs go on and on and on.

I like the way my lengthy strides carry me along.

I like the way my head's up high as I whistle a happy song.

And on that note, since I am here and listing all I like,

I might as well keep going, since it seems I have all night.

I like my tummy, bulge and all, because it's soft and mine.

I like that I am using the phrase "I like" so many times!

I like my hands because they’re good to help me play my flute.

I like my nose, though you call it a lump, because I think it's cute.

I like my eyes and ears and mouth, they’re functional to boot!

In fact... I think I like myself, which, being honest, is rather new.

It took me a long time to get this way-- I never was before.

It wasn't easy; it used to be I only saw what I abhorred.

The thing is, all around me as I looked at my little world,

I wanted people to look inside, but was told the outside meant much more.

And do you know what, I reached a stage where I realized that wasn't true--

A revelation which changed my life and shocked me through and through.

"Beauty's on the inside, and your looks don't make you you."

And while this was a stepping stone, I learned something else too:

While no, how I look does NOT define if I am swell,

I am allowed to love the way I look as well!

If other people don't like it, I can just say, "Hell--

I like these things that you do not. Every bit and every cell!”

I can love each body part of mine for every little trait.

Not loving them in spite of my height, or in spite of my weight,

But for each bump and flaw and bulge and ache.

Though others may not understand, it’s called self esteem, not being vain.

People will throw words at you, about your body and how you dress.

It can sometimes pull you down, break your heart, make you jealous.

But you know what: giraffes are noble, so if I’m a giraffe, I’m blessed!

You might see a lump of coal, but I see a diamond: flawless.