I stand as I am, unmasked before the day,
No borrowed face, no role I choose to wear;
I will not bend my truth to light your way,
Nor trade my soul for praise I cannot share.
I know my faults; they walk beside my name,
Yet still I strive with all the strength I own;
Though I am flawed, I feel no need for shame,
For every scar has taught me how I’ve grown.
If what you see should fail to meet your mind,
Then turn away; I will not beg your grace.
Your judgement is a mirror for your kind,
Not chains that I must fasten to my face.
So let me be: imperfect, proud, and free,
For I belong to no one else but me.