Ugly Beauty

When you look at me, who do you see? Is it me you see, the heart and strength of that who is me?

When you look at me, who do you see? Is it the soul of lost loves, their silhouettes overshadowing me?

When you look at me, who do you see? Is it the gentle kiss and smile that greets you in the morning and puts you at ease?

When you look at me, who do you see? Is it the lover who steals you away in the night, leaving you in a breathless sleep?

When you look at me, who do you see? Is it a reflection so true, deep-rooted within the heart that reflects you, or is it the reflection of who you want me to be?

Broken and desolate - used and abused. Withered and bitter like the dying fruit on the vine. The life within that has begun to drain like air from a balloon.

When you look at me, who do you see?

When you look at me, who do you see? Is it the girl next door with the smile that shines brighter than the sun that beams?

When you look at me, who do you see? It is the innocence of a five-year-old who skinned her knee seeking comfort from mommy?

When you look at me, who do you see? Is it the superhero you seek, appearing from the darkness that puts your fears at ease?

When you look at me, who do you see? The felon, hustler, thug, or thief who robs you blind of your innermost peace?

When you look at me, who do you see? Is it the frail of heart, the decrepit in life, or is it the living dead who takes the final exhale when trying to breathe?

Abandoned and lost - bruised and bleeding. A body torn to shreds by the claws that dig into the flesh barely covering the scars that your pain has inflicted. A terminal patient begging for their last breath. Begging to be released - let me go so I can die in peace.