The Model

This is not the body
Of a young model,
Tight and defined.

You may have to look
Beneath the surface
To find the lines of muscle.

But this is my gift to give-
To stand before you
With no shame.
To share this body
That has been given
A second chance.

I carry the weight of years,
Childbirth, cancer,
Lessons from life.

And the scars you cannot see,
Deep inside,
Continue to heal.
This offering
Is a part of that healing.

So draw me as you see me,
Imperfect,
But whole.

I have been to the edge
And back again,
And I have nothing
Left to hide.



Rishell Graves
August 26, 2010