Miss Shadow Poem by Ziyanda KUBONI

I found love in a pen and paper
Finally, I could release all this anger
Built from years and years of silence
Nursing hatred and vile thoughts that bred violence
I know that I am good at heart
However, I could never escape my shadow
She follows me around threatening to rip off my mask
After all, I have nursed her
Fed her
And secretly loved her for years
Although I was in denial mistaking my love for hatred
The truth is I found comfort in her
My shadow was dark, but comforting
That is because she reminded me that it was okay to be flawed
Yes, they will always be appalled
But they are just like you
Dark, dangerous and imperfect
They hide behind their fake plastic smiles
Harboring judgement and resentment
Deeming your actions repugnant
Hypocrites!
Hiding from themselves
Looking for someone to project their filth on
Which is why I choose her, my shadow
She isn't as shallow
Instead she shows me the depth of my being
Raw and real.

- ZIYANDA KUBONI