Marked
By Timothy Patrick
23 July 2008
I have a birthmark.
More specifically I have a port-wine stain.
Although it has been captured on film many times over in my 31 years, I have never taken off my shirt in order to show it off. Yesterday afternoon, however, I was inspired.
Viewing the beautiful Megan Horsburgh'sself portrait titled Oh, Man I enjoyed how she pointed out her birthmark and other imperfections for all to see.
I do not have a toned body. Harsh light can be merciful and adds definition here and there. Deep shadows create a new me, yet the birthmark, the port-wine stain are still there and it is still me. I am imperfect, from the beginnings of my future love handles to the beard that will never completely fill in to the red swatches of superficial dilated capillaries that rest on my stomach.
I am marked, I am imperfect, but I am still me.
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