Her hair hung out the window,

her left arm, outstretched,

hair dips into her mouth,

the right arm to quickly wisp it away.

The shorts she bought just for the occasion,

the top that hugs the right places and erases the imperfections,

the ring her sister gave her,

the necklace her father paid for.

We all have images of what we wish we could be like. Whether it be the power of athleticism, the grace of a dancer, or the brain of a lawyer. We imagine these qualities, seek them out, and cry when we fail to reach them.

My entire life I have been running from my flaws and seeking out a new self for me. I wished I was more outgoing, more courageous and daring, fitter and leaner, and a bit wiser.

Twenty one years later and I won't waste another birthday wish. I’ve finished running and searching high and low for a person I am not.

I am perfectly imperfect. It’s as simple as that. There are parts of my personality and being I wish I could change. But, then I wouldn’t be me.

It is better to always be seeking to be a better version of myself than to be seeking to be a different version that isn’t true to who I am.

Embrace your flaws, strengthen your weaknesses, and build yourself up. Learn to be okay with not being perfect.