The Skin Your In

The Skin Your In



When we are born our skin is the canvas we begin the story of our lives upon

The years will pass and what was new will begin to age and show the signs

As we mature all the little scars and marks make their mark on that canvas

They all tell your story.



For some that canvas becomes the ultimate work of art

And they choose to color and decorate it with their own designs

Whether that be tattoos or piercings or both.

Whether they be chosen  in haste, or carefully select and debated over each choice

Be they elaborate, beautiful, savage or bold, simple or sparkly

These are the illustrations to their stories



Then there are those who from insult, inheritance, injury or illness

Who's skin does not reflect the beauty within

This is Us. This is me





We are those with the scars and burns,

the lumps, bumps or birthmarks,

The distortions of normal that mar our lives.

We are the ones who endure the looks and the whispers,

The stares and the thoughtless comments.



Just because we may look different, have an obvious handicap ,

react differently to things from you, or handle stresses with less confidence.

Just because we are not what you call 'Normal'.

Does not mean that our feelings are less, nor that we are stupid or ignorant.



We hear the remarks and see the stares.

It hurts.  We are human too.  We have the same feelings



You don't see the reflection we see

The imperfections that are magnified by our own so critical eye.

For those of you who's skin is normal

You don't feel our envy for those who's skin is smooth and unmarred.



You don't have the same uncertainties, fears or demons

Your sadness, pain, or loneliness comes from something else.

You don't make the same choices as I do, nor face my demons

You have your own, they are just as real and painful to you as mine are to me.



The choices we all have to make are not so different

You may face your own challenges, and fears

But we are all the same, we want the same things

Happiness, family, love, acceptance.



And I will not judge you, if you will not judge me.





Please don't point or stare.

You would not like to under such a spotlight.

Do not comment on what you do not understand.

Please do not pity us, we don't need it



For we are strong. 

Our scars, bumps and lumps, burns and marks are badges of honour.

These marks are the way we know that we can beat anything.

They are the physical reminder that we can rise above it all

We still live full lives, love and be loved.

Be cared for, accept and be accepted

They do not stop us, but strengthen us



We may not be 'Normal'

But we are many and we are strong.

Love the Skin your in

It's your canvas, our story and no two are the same.