To Own the Skin You're In

what a challenge it is

to own the skin we're in

to stand up tall, shoulders back, head held high

to say, this is me, this is the space I claim

to not shrink back, to not shy away

but to rise up, unapologetically

what a challenge it is 

to own the skin we're in

we bow out,

we pull back,

we say

sorry

sorry

sorry

in shame,

in fear,

in insecurity

what a challenge it is

to own the skin we're in

but you

are beautiful

radiant

rare and unique and irreplaceable and outstanding

you

are skin and bones knitted in your very own way

light and life and fire

what a challenge it is

to own the skin we're in

but it's our home

our only one

let's fling open the windows

and let the air in

let's swing the door wide

and let the love in

let's shake the dust off

and own this home

these hearts

these bones

because

we are art

living

breathing

shining

free.

i am here. 

this is me.