“Hello, with an apology” by bailey cowen

When I tell you hello, 

I wonder what you see 

in my eyes, 

in me. 

Do you see 

the extra 30 pounds I carry so unwillingly 

on my hips, but mostly as a burden 

behind my eyes. 

Am I worthy at this size?

Do you see 

the worry about tomorrow, carefully hidden 

under the casual, "I’m fine, how are you?" 

Or do you fail 

to notice, caught up in your world 

and your time. 

Do you see

the longing I carry, desperate 

to belong?

Do you notice that I'm a little broken right now, 

cracked and 

broken, waiting 

for time to heal wounds I thought I had forgotten?

Hello, good day! 

(as my mind whispers, I'm sorry! 

For existing 

in this burdensome way)

Hello! 

(I am 

enough, 

regardless of what you say)