You don’t get to constantly tell someone that anyone might be watching,
so they should dress or act a certain way,
and then judge them for being self-conscious.

It’s the demon you’ve created. Live with it,
or understand your role in it and f*cking fix it.

How did I get here?
I was sitting in the trotro and saw someone with a hairy back and scars in a spaghetti strap—
something I’ll never think to wear.
Not with so many “blemishes” or “imperfections,”
not with the flappy arms or the others.

And then I wondered where all of this came from,
because these are normal human things—
things she isn’t responsible for.
It might not exactly be aesthetically pleasing,
but it’s normal. It’s human.
I get that it’s not what’s usually portrayed,
but I guess that’s why we’re unique.

Nobody should be made to feel bad for looking a certain way.
There’s usually more to the story than meets the eye,
and I’m glad that, even if she’s insecure about it,
or if people talk or look at it,
She carries it well—like it’s nothing.
Even though I know that sometimes it definitely crosses her mind,
Or it gets mentioned and made fun of.

I’m just glad she’s her.
And today, she’s my inspiration just to be.
Just exist.

Shout out to those who, despite the words, remain themselves—
who break away from the norm or the regular status quo.
Who really is anyone to tell us who or what to be?
We are all just stars in the universe, shining individually—
each with a unique make-up,
distinct features that are greatly loved.

Written by: Abena Busayo