BALLAD Poem: To Be In Love With Myself Again, by Elon Bryant

In the mirror’s gaze, I once felt whole,
But shadows whispered fears that took their toll.
A young Black girl, with dreams like stars,
Yet burdens of judgment left invisible scars.
I’ve danced to the rhythm of others’ embrace,
Lost in their visions, I lost my own grace.
Scared of the change that could set me free,
I built up a fortress, but it suffocated me.

With every new dawn, the world feels so loud,
They watch and they comment, a critical crowd.
Afraid to be bold, afraid to be bright,
I’ve hidden my heart, turned away from the light.
But deep down, I yearn for that spark to ignite,
To reclaim my own power, to step into the light.

For in every struggle, I find strength anew,
To love every facet, to cherish what’s true.
So here’s to the journey, though fear grips my soul,
I’ll rise from the ashes, I’ll reclaim my own role.
No more will I cower, no more will I bend,
I’ll learn to be fierce, to love and defend.
To be in love with myself once again,
To break through the chains, let the healing begin.

With each step I take, I’ll embrace all the change,
And dance in my beauty, unbound and unchained.
For I am a melody, rich and profound,
A young Black woman, with strength all around.
So here’s to the future, bright, bold, and free,
To love myself wholly, just as I should be.

Author: poetryfest

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