My Poem: As I looked into the mirror, I was gently surprised by the kindness looking back. "How lovely you look today", said the eyes smiling at me. As I peered deeper, the kindness drew me into deep caressing waves, comfortable and understanding- a lifetime of pushing self away and pulling self back. The cruel game is over, this much is clear. The eyes say it all. I am loved. I am only 41 years old and I really really like myself. I do believe this is like finishing the race early. I meet so many faces each day and I see the doubt, and self hatred splintered inside calling out to be loved. "I've been there", I am reminded. And I say a silent prayer. I am blessed by own courageousness- I never gave up on loving me, no matter how scared I became at the pits of loneliness I found in my own heart and the mountains of neediness I discovered deep in my belly. I never gave up on me. There were times I wanted to run- as I came face to face with ...