Mirrors

I hate seeing my own reflection, the white frame that stands out against everything. I see myself in everything, everywhere. In phone screens, stagnant water, and metal spoons. The stares of strangers passing by, a cloud in an otherwise perfect blue sky, and the defective book on a shelf nobody wanted to buy. 

It changed when I saw my reflection through your eyes. The white frame that stands out against everything. I see myself in everything. In glass windows, shiny cars, and golden doorknobs. The restlessness in children that sparks play, a cloud that brings shade on a hot summer day, a well-loved and worn-down book set on display. 

Finally, I could see beyond my reflection. I saw myself everywhere. In smiles when I see friends, wonder in a child’s eye, and the kindness someone shows in return for kindness. The joy of people laughing, lovers who burn like an ember, or friends reuniting. The beauty in blue skies, a white December, or the sunrise. The mystery in an eye-catching cover, a stranger you vaguely remember, a story you’re ready to uncover.