REFLECTION

I am afraid of my reflection

I am afraid of her ’cause she knows I lie.

When I make up layers upon layers to cover the evidence of his battering;

I am afraid to look her in the eye ’cause she knows the truth.

I am afraid of my reflection

I am afraid of her ’cause she knows my fears.

When they criticize my sacrifice and I pretend it’s no big deal, then swallow my voice in surrender to theirs;

I am afraid to look her in the eye for fear of what I’ll find.

I am afraid of my reflection

I am afraid of her ’cause she knows my truth.

When I cut myself down to make others feel good and allow them walk over me like I don’t matter;

I am afraid to look her in the eye ’cause she’ll call my name and dare me to live with guts!

By Liza Chuma Akunyili on June 13, 2020.

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Exported from Medium on February 2, 2026.