“I think your whole life shows in your face, and you should be proud of that.”
– Lauren Bacall
I’m not sure I recognize her as I should, that face starting back at me in the mirror. I look away, and then back, fascinated at what reflects back.
A single grey hair erupts from the crown; sparkly against the darkness, it shines in glory and a sort of unexpected grandeur.
You’ve earned this, it whispers.
Looking closely, another strand peeks out from the temple, as if playing a game of hide and seek.
Deep brown eyes stare back at me, protected by long, black lashes. I tilt my chin up just a bit, and they play along, more accustomed to looking down,
but willing to give it a chance.
I remember, don’t you? they cry back.
I flick on the the light and lean in a bit closer.
A crescent shaped line forms around my mouth. Where did that come from?
Has my life been this full of laughter? Or has every smile just etched this deep, unknown to me?
You’ve earned this, it smiles back.
These battle scars, these trophies of my growth, bear witness to a life well lived,
to an adventure of risks and rewards, to love and lasting memories.
This life does show on my face, and yes, I’m proud of that.
Writing reflections inspired by december prompt-a-day with writealm.com.
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