I actively love myself. Do you?

“I love you”, I say softly.

“You’re doing great,” I assure the mirror.

I love myself actively, as protest in response to messages of my unworthiness, as salve to heal the wounds from the chains and saws of unrefined minds, as defense in the lifelong war I have waged against my physical self.

I charge forward

to face me,

my best friend,

my worst enemy.

I walk with feet kissing the ground, hips swaying with delight, head held high, wearing my crown of bright jewels, offering gems of truth, love and beauty.

I dress boldly.

I grin mischievously.

I laugh loudly.

I feel deeply.

I express truthfully.

I nurture lovingly.

I dance wildly.

I sing joyfully.

I am limitless

and I live my best life.

“You have big energy”, she said.

“You’re a leader”.

She saw my strength and power

and acknowledged my worth.

I see my strength and power

And acknowledge my growth.

It has been a long journey.

And I was once broken,

frozen,

a grim tin woman.

And now,

I am a peaceful warrior,

A sacred jester,

A passionate queen.

I work hard to love myself.

I have to

love

myself

unconditionally

before I learn

how to give

and

how to receive.