MIRROR MIRROR ON THE WALL

‘Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?’
She stands before her reflection, like an accused before a judge.
Silence rings out deafening and she shifts slightly waiting for her verdict.
Then it speaks, it’s voice quiet at first.
She strains to hear, and the voice emboldened grows louder.

‘Your question is weighty, for you are just one among many.
If only you were taller, you would be fair enough.
That crooked nose and freckled face are entirely out of place.
Your lips, too dry and brittle; a little moisture might help your chances.
Oh your waist, definitely too wide.
That stomach, flatten it a bit would you?
Your entire frame is disconcerting.
If only you were more shapely;
If only you were slimmer;
If only you were fairer;
If only…’

A tear slides down her face and she wills to hide from herself.
She swipes her hand to stop the falling tear.
Alas, she’s too late.
The tear hits the floor and ‘Crack’ the mirror breaks.
Glass shatters and with it the voice fades.
She stands dejected, then another beckons to her.
She draws it out from a pile of rejects.
The frame is worn, its glass dusty.
She wipes off the dust and hangs it on the wall.
After a slight pause she restates her inquiry.
With tear stained cheeks, bloodshot eyes and smeared makeup.

‘Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all?’
Its soft words caresses her, touching her in a place she had long forgotten.
‘You were formed after the similitude of a palace;
Created in the image of the perfect one;
Crafted exquisitely with love;
Every detail of you woven with delicate care;
Heart of gold wrapped up in beauty, glory and virtue.
You were made to be a cornerstone polished like a palace;
Yet you stare at the world, embracing its standards.
Gifted to heal broken hearts;
Yet you wallow in self pity, obsessed with the opinions that belittle you.
Look at me,’ the voice urges, it’s nudge hard to resist.

She looks up, stares intently and her reflection soon transforms before her eyes.
‘Your seemingly uncomely parts are for honour;
And in your overwhelming weaknesses lies strength.
Be bold oh daughter of Zion;
For you are the fairest of them all.