I Am the Unicorn

you think you know me

from a photo or a selfie—

the way my hair falls,

the squint to my eyes,

the smirk on my mouth—

but I see my reflection

in far different shades.

you see a girl, just a girl,

who will be something

or more likely nothing,

a whisper and not a shout,

but I see a someone there

who may color the world

if only she takes the chance.

you watch me through a lens

of your silent expectations

and quick, hasty judgments—

but I recognize I have power

with smiles and words alone,

kindness that seeps past

all the curt burdens of a look.

I am mythical and magical,

due far more credit than I get,

because I see this world in hues

that don't dampen my experience.

Call me a unicorn, if you will—

because I will see the greatness

both within me and outside me.