versions

always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of somebody else.
– judy garland

there’s been a few versions of me over the years, as i tried to belong to places and with groups of people i admired.

and, when i look at these photographs of me, doing my thing on the beach where i grew up, i see a version of myself that feels right and true. i would wear a dress, but not any shoes. and that didn’t stop me from climbing trees or doing anything else i wanted to do.

i don’t want to be her again, but i want to always keep an air of adventure about me,
belong to myself first, then join you,
wear what i want without any apologies,
spend time with people i cherish,
live my life instead of a version of yours.