The View from Here

Badges of wisdom, of courage, 

For so long I resented your encroachment upon my face and body, once unlined, radiant with youthful exuberance, the world at my feet,

Over time, you marked the passage of laughter and tears, a map of my life, a rich journey filled with adventure. 

I have come to an understanding with your lines, grateful for their gifts of wisdom and self-acceptance.  They have taught me priceless lessons about true beauty. 

 I look into the mirror and no longer see a girl, but a woman. A woman with crows feet and smile lines. A woman who has lived and lived some more. A woman who now knows that the best is yet to come.