Her Harshest Critic

A poem of self doubt

The Poem:

Her harshest critic is a pane

robotic mirror void of feeling

Spewing vitriolic lies that stain

of beauty, body, brains, and worth

My gaze at the glass reveals an alternate view

No mirror reflects without illumination

Her aura sparkles like a gemstone in fire

She is the radiance allowing reflections

She is the light that fills the room

Worthy her person perfect as is

Worthy her price far above rubies

Worthy above all love of herself

Heed not the futile pane of glass

Your charge now to stare into Heaven

Celestial virtue your only worthy reflection

Still allowing some of your light to illuminate me

The Muse:

I wrote this poem over a year ago specifically for a lady friend that was struggling with self doubt. It didn't matter that I thought she was amazing, smart, beautiful, and sexy. What she saw in the mirror each day she loathed. When someone you care about is in that mental state, it is hard for both of you. Her for obvious reasons, but you also because you are powerless to help - try as you might. But the roots of the poem go back further. I was at a hotel in Boston some years ago. I was checking in and, like many hotels, this one had snacks by the reception desk. A lady came behind me and I heard "those look so good but I can't eat one ... I'm too fat already". I turned and saw a stunning lady. She was a little older than me, probably late 40's. She was cute with an incredible figure. My inner monologue asked "is that how she sees herself?" The more I talked to ladies over the years in various situations, the more I realized most women struggle with a lot of self doubt regardless of their outer aura.

I don't see what you ladies are seeing. I look at every woman as beautiful in some way. Some are physically attractive. Some have gigantic capacities to love. Many are great nurturers. Most all will do about anything for you if you truly touch their heart. So I see a world full of these magnificent creatures of the opposite sex. I wish I could magically hug you all and let you gain an understanding of your worth. Please don't let a stupid mirror on the wall steal your worth.