Within my own skin

I believe the Universe knows who I am

I believe that I am loved

By the power that gave expression to life

I need to begin to think of how it would feel

To live as I want

And as I listen to my heart

Find the answers that are right for me

I used to think that rejection was the worst thing

I used to think that the terrible feeling I felt when you ignored me

Was a sign I was not worth much

Now I just know there are places I do not belong

And trying to cut myself down to size

Helps no one

There is a place in me that know what it knows

Feels how it feels

Whether I feel whole at that time

Or in fragments

There is a place of peace that often only opens up

When I am not seeking affirmation or validation in the world

There is a place I can find that is home

I find that place when I no longer leave myself behind

I know now that so often who I am

May make others turn away

But as long as I know I am being true to myself

I will be okay

Because so many things I thought I used to know

According to the dictates of approval and society

Have proven themselves to be wrong

And the happiest place I can be

Is simply alive

And in touch with the present moment

Totally at home

Within in my own skin