Bernice

by Kristine Ong Muslim

You look at the reflection
Of your flabby thighs,
Wriggling loose skin,
And unsightly plump ass
In the bathroom mirror.
You have been taught
To look at yourself
This way.
Never mind how the mirror looks
At you.

You wish to be paper thin as toilet paper,
Crackling and fading and yellowing with age.
It will take eternities before you finally see
Your magical brown eyes, shining brown hair,
And the wisdom of your deities.

The tub is full. The sink is dry.
Your misery is my pleasure.
Go hang yourself some bloody towels
And tie that noose
Before daybreak.
You shall be weightless by then.