NOTICED

Beauty is within

The mirror reveals my appalling homeliness

In the darkest corner of my core

It tosses me into a labyrinth of discouragement

what to do?

conceivably I could color my hair pink

perhaps I will be noticed

when I stroll down the street

my only friend inspires me

will people gawk at me like a freak?

more than they do now?

 

Mom’s face turns red at my new color

says I look like a s**t

slices deep into my inner focus

drives me to assume that I am a nonentity

I wish to rouse her

she turns her head to deflect me

I hope to be noticed favorably in a crowd

my friend heartens me

 

Once more I gaze in the mirror

To convince myself of the new hairdo

this does not reassure my verve

so that I can bury

my repulsiveness leastwise moderately

my only friend says I ought to consider another method

to create loveliness internally

and assuage what others muse about me

I now realize at this very moment

self- love emanates from self esteem

 

 

Author's Note

Thank you for reading!

Reviews

[poetgurl (Plainly Meg)]

This is such a a well written and stated write, so much truth.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you Meg, appreciated
Warmly, B

[Gee]

The things folk do "to fit in" be noticed.
Takes many of us a very long time to become comfortable in our own skin and care not as to what others see or think of us.
You write in a style from years gone by Betty, so easy to read.
Hope you are keeping well

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you Gee, good to see you! Have a happy Sunday!
Warmly, B

[Ken Simm.]

Such a true poem as I have discovered several times. Extremly clevely written.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you Ken, much appreciated
Warmly, B

[Senu Jayasinghe]

It may seem too bold a method " color my hair pink" to be noticed by the world, because it is a different kind of pain when you are so invisible when you are right there with your screaming emotions, love and passion.
However if you love yourself the society's opinion is merely a passing thought.

[Betty Hermelee]

I agree! And you’re welcome!
Warmly, B.

[DIVYA]

Dear Betty,
This is such a relatable write for all those who suffer from self-doubt and not enough self-esteem. The need to be appreciated, noticed is very touching as the protagonist wonders what she can do to garner favorable attention from others. A very palpable need to relate to. I loved the way she considers turning her hair pink, which seems to be a drastic measure, in order to be looked at. Her old friend comes to the rescue and states the greatest truth. We are as lovely as we think we are! Just watch her change her mindset and begin to glow and radiate beauty from within. Everyone will be stunned at the radical transformation! I have been there, done it and completely felt the emotions in this wonderful poem. Loved it!

[Betty Hermelee]

I love your review Diyva, thank you from my heart!... the review is so perfect for this piece... you related to the protagonist with empathy...
So glad you're back!
Warmly, B

[DIVYA]

I enjoyed and related to the poem so much! You're welcome, dear Betty!

[Ana Papaya]

I think so many of us want to be seen, and appreciated, without judgement.
Those with inner beauty have a glow that attracts, whether they know it or not.
Nice poem, Betty. Gets one thinking about how we see those around us.

[Betty Hermelee]

I really like your comnents Ana; a well thought out review
Warmly
B.

[Ana Papaya]

My pleasure, Betty 💛🙂
Happy Friday!

[Pete]

there is inner beauty as well as outer. not always a natural thing to love ourselves for various reasons - what we perceive as shortcomings or not measuring up. parents can be the most critical as they feel entitled to tell us as such. our culture does little if anything to help. poignant piece that stirs.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you Pete for your thoughtful reviews, always….
Warmly B

[Arundass TP]

Mirror, wishes and expectations. Blending into powerful poem.

[Betty Hermelee]

Thank you very much TP
Warmly, B

[Chris Shaw]

Growing up can be so painful for some. Sadly these days the pressure is on for young women to look perfect. What happened to natural beauty both inside and out? Much more consideration should be given to building the esteem of our youngsters instead of focusing on outward appearances. Building self esteem classes instead of applying makeup, might be a place to start. The media don’t help either. Dear Betty I admire the way you conveyed this powerful message. Have a great day.

Chris

[Betty Hermelee]

Dear Chris....I think your comments are spot on... we should instill confidence instead of perfection
Great review...Happy Wednesday!
Warmly, B

[Dave Brown]

My 14 yr. old granddaughter has recently entered this world of self doubt, causing a great deal of anxiety on her part and comparable anguish on the part of her parents.
"What is this life if full of care....))"

[Betty Hermelee]

I think you are correct... parents are partially responsible for their kid's welfare....
thoughtful response
Warmly BESTB