I held a mirror up

Looking at myself constantly.

Not because I was self-centered

But because

Every time I spoke

Every time I moved

Every time I thought about my appearance

I criticized myself.

I knocked myself down 

A little lower with each minute that passed

Even in my proudest moments

My brain formed the thought

"You aren't good enough"

 

I was self-destructive

I was motivating myself to strive and be better

 

Or at least thats what I thought.

Until now.

 

Writing out my emotions has made me realize

Every second I spent wishing I was better

Was a second I missed to praise myself for the goals I have accomplished

And realizing this now

Means that I can bgin to embrace the flaws

And celebrate my diligence 

 

I could always do better

Couldn't we all?

It doesn't mean we can't love ourselves right now