Beyond The Mirror Poem by Shelley Williams

I glanced in the mirror
and my looks caused a strain.
My image was sloppy
and my appearance was plain.

On the outside I struggled
to accept me for me.
Inside I was crying
where nobody could see.

My nose looked pointy
and my ears were large.
My mouth kept a frown
when my eyes were in charge.

I saw more than enough
of the ugly that shone.
'The mirror tells no lies'
I thought with a groan.

Where was the beauty
that I had hoped to see?
Would it cost me money
or by a miracle be free?

I hated to look closely
at my own ugly face.
I was disgusted with myself
and tried to hide the disgrace.

I felt like the beast
among those of beauty.
My friends were great
and they called me a cutie.

I never understood
why my friends didn't gag.
I thought I looked awful
with the face of a hag.

I knew many people
and not once did they stare.
I was always included
and they treated me fair.

On the inside I loved
all who came my way.
My compassion was sweet
and I served others all day.

Not once was I told
that I was ugly and fat
The beauty inside
had drowned out all that.

They could see more
than I saw in the mirror.
with eyes of difference
good looks did appear.