BEAUTY

Beauty is not_
that soft, flawless face_
with a smooth but rigid foundation.

It is not_
a make-up of well-ground dust_
stamped on a silky, melanous skin.

It is not_
that reflexive second glance_
you throw at that crush of yours.

It is not_
that tasteful dish of jollof rice_
you munch to appease your fleshy gods.

Beauty is actually_
what you see_
when you do not look.

It is_
all you have left_
when nothing seems right.

It is that smile_
your innocent cheeks cook up_
amidst shrilling heartbreaks.

It is good and evil;_
light and darkness_
all wrapped up in one tiny box.

It is that lullaby_
your willing spirit composes_
to serenade the fatigued body.

Beauty is just what you are_
when your sole companion_
is that image in the mirror.

Written by Samuel Ikeobi
ikeobis@yahoo.com