Turning off the charm

You always told me that I was charming.

Not in the way that was deceiving,

but one full of curiosity and understanding.

I never believed you.

until you left.

Sometimes I wonder if I turned it off.

Flipped a switch

turned around inside my own head

like I couldn’t bear to keep a part of me

that had made you think I was so extraordinary

a beautiful catch

Slowly, but surely

I’m leaning back into the qualities of mine,

that go beyond charm.

Feeling uncomfortable,

but so sure.

Because I’m no longer afraid

no longer afraid to fall in love once more.