An Unread Note to Self

Look at us dancing

with gleeful abandon

as the tape

of your childhood

plays

Your dance unreserved,

no matter who 

was watching

We were partners,

companions

Now you step 

in front of a mirror

and you no longer see me

You only see flaws,

imperfections,

never beauty

The mirror never 

bringing a smile

The world told you

you didn’t deserve me,

you couldn’t have me

That self-confidence

was only for others

That whatever you were,

it wasn’t enough

The echoes still 

play in your mind

every time you

tamper your joy

You shouldn’t dance,

you’re embarrassing

You can’t sing,

just mouth the words

Save the world 

from your shame,

your inadequacy

But I remember

when we danced

written January 25, 2021