By Neena Grewal, TIWP Student

Hello. I’m not really sure how to write a letter, I only learned to write a few minutes ago. Maybe if you told me your name, I could call you that. For now, you’re just person.

I’ve seen you for a while, but I’m not sure how long. Years for me are seconds to you. Maybe we’ve just met. Or maybe I’ve been here since you were small.

But I’m here to tell you to stop. Every time you look at me, you examine your flaws. The acne that suddenly sprouted, or the pimple that won’t g away. The shadow of hair above your nose, or under it. The pudge of your stomach, the shape of your jaw.

Other times, you’ll be less critical. You’ll be dancing, doing your hair, checking out your butt or cleavage, and you’ll smile. Maybe you’ll laugh.

It’s worth it, I think, to change the things you want so you’re happier. You’ll add that funny powder and cream to your pretty, spotted face and instantly look the way you want. But I’m here to warn you.

I have seen you sad, annoyed, joyful, and sometimes downright mean. So remember to be kind to yourself.

You’re worth more than you think. You’re pretty even without the cream and powder. Even pretty when you have acne, a bad hair day, or tears streaming down your face. Don’t be so hard on yourself for not looking picture perfect.

After all, without you, there’s no use for me, is there?

With all my love,
Your mirror