today i walked and felt tall.
like the world's weight
no longer
threatened to break my spine.

today i sat and felt strong.
for years i lifted children
like barbells
and now i am an athlete.

today i talked and felt wise.
my waters are
deep enough
to reflect.

today i lived and felt beautiful.
a face i once knew said
my babyish looks are gone.
and it's true: i am leaving my troubled youth behind.