Today I looked at my mirror image and didn’t turn away.

I scanned my face and physique without any harmful thoughts.

Taking an interest in the fabric that I wear, not the skin beneath it.

Seeing myself as a complex creature, not a simple sex doll.

Admiring the way my hair falls around my face and my necklace matches my earrings.

How my blue eyes stand out submerged in eye shadow and my white teeth sparkle in an unfamiliar form of a smile. 

As I carefully added the finishing touches to my makeup.

Suddenly I realised I had softened my gaze for my reflection and no longer looked with daggers.