It Comes with an Explanation
by Ngozi Osuagwu, MD | February 13th, 2023

This past weekend I had a book reading. I ended the reading with the last poem in Sincerely, Your Gynecologist.
WHAT IS WRONG WITH BEING NATURAL?
What is wrong with being natural?
What is wrong with being me?
I need him to see me as I am, not what I was.
I do not want to go through the changes to be the person I was not.
So I took off the weave.
I stopped wearing a bra.
I allowed the hair between my legs to grow and grow.
I did not use the mascara and I did not apply the eyeliner.
I took off the lashes.
If he loved me, he would have to love who I really am.
I stopped coloring my hair
The fake nails were gone.
Yes, he would see me for what I am, not what I was.
I needed to go natural
I needed to be me.
I needed to tell the world that I was beautiful as I am and not as I was.
When I read this poem, it often needs an explanation. This poem is non-judgmental. We are on a journey, and depending on where we are, we might choose to let go of things. With COVID and wearing a mask, I let go of wearing foundation. I have saved a lot of money. Before COVID, you would not catch me outside without foundation on my face. And now, it is not part of my daily routine.
Hi Ngozi!
I thoroughly enjoyed the entire event! Happy Birthday belated. I got a chance to speak with your MOM! She is truly a dynamo! No wonder you are so resilient!!
Hugs, admiration and respect to you and your family!
Yvette
It was great having you attend the event. Please continue to share the information.