Each pound gained
my stake in 'pretty' waned
in societies tiny frame
of what's pretty
and what is shamed.

Why do souls
care for their cages?

You don't have to be beautiful,
to be worthy of beautiful love.

I can see myself clearer

every part of me working like clockwork.
a machine doesn't have to be alluring.
the mirror holds no expectations
of beauty.
and I'm safe in knowing that

I don't have to pretend.