6.5

The smallest words 

Can sometimes hurt

For years after they should

It’s been some time

But I still find

My outsides aren't good

I still remember

One day when

The girls rated the guys

He was an 8

And he, the same

And I, a 6.5

The lowest grade

Almost a fail

If looks were academe

Shallow yes

Perhaps naive

But hurtful all the same

It’s been some years

I’ve grown a bit

And found a happy place

But now you seem

Confused when I

Don’t try to see your face

It’s not so much

A clung-to grudge

I’ve just moved on, you see

I’ve found new friends

And they respect

The handsome inside me

I may not be 

Most beautiful

Or favored by your vote

But rest assured

I’m stronger now

My mental stays afloat

For looks will fade

The glory days

Of youth will not endure

Though not the best

At looks, I find

My heart and mind mature

So if you wonder

Where I’ve been

Just know I’m doing fine

And if you wonder

How I look?

I’d say an 8.5