I need water
I need air
I need food
I need a home
I need clothes on my back 
To cover up the scars 
The complicated pieces of this soul 
That make me whole.

Oftentimes I hide away
The mess inside my mind
The things I hold 
Near and dear to my heart 
So no one can judge

But why should I?
I am different, yes
Nonetheless, I am who I am
I hold such beauty and 
Light that needs to be shared

I make mistakes 
I’ve made decisions I’m not proud of
I also choose to help those in need 
With my actions 
With my words
I love those around me deeply
I make them proud with my growth

I absorb the lessons gained
From my experiences 
I respond to hardships
With honesty and grace 
I balance my priorities as
God keeps my life steady 
Relationships and all…

I realize that 
As His creation 
As His child 
I can be nothing but me
Imperfect as I am…

I am not a burden 
My existence is not a bother
I am cherished 
I am a gem
I am unique
I absolutely love myself 
And I have nothing to apologize for.

benedicta sackey