Please Don't Look At Me Like That

            My name is Sara Leigh, and I’d appreciate it if you didn’t look at me like that.

These are the words that most frequently leave my mouth on a daily basis. My current condition has taught me that people care about first impressions more than you’d think. First impressions, I have also come to learn, are based mostly on appearance. Now this isn’t some pity story. I’m not asking for you to feel so sorry for me. I’m asking you to not look at me like that. It is hard enough having to look at myself, to know myself, to feel myself. I don’t need extra eyes and words making me feel any worse.

Like I already said, this is no pity party for Sara Leigh. I know what I’ve done is my own fault, and I fully accept the consequences. Still, please don’t look at me like that. Support is what I need, and if you refuse to support me during this tough time; please, lie to me in that, say you support me anyways. The doctors say it is important for my health, and for the health of the child I’m carrying.

Please, stop looking at me like that. Accidents happen, but wait, before you decide to lecture; I’ve already heard it, trust me. I understand that this, this child, is so much more than an accident. I know this will be the most difficult thing I have ever endured, and the most beautiful thing I have ever celebrated. My emotions are so mixed, you could hardly understand. I am scarred out of my skin with worry, for myself and for the child that is now my responsibility. Yet I am so extraordinarily happy, the love growing inside me is mine, completely me, and how can I not love myself in a time like this, mistakes and all.

This isn’t a tragic story, it was my decision to take part in the process that is meant to take love and turn it into a beautiful child. I abused the sacredness of this act, and must live with the consequences. But because of the great love maturing inside me that is my child, I can hardly call it a consequence. So to the world; I know I messed up, it is more apparent to me than it ever will be to you, since I am the one with the swollen stomach. You can judge me from a glance; judge me on being a teen mother. But I know I can do this, and I will make my baby proud. I apologize for the language, but screw you, haters.

My name is Sara Leigh, I am a very aware and proud teenage mother to a child that will be beautiful and extraordinary.

Please, don’t look at me like that. I think I have asked enough.

(For the young women who have to fight the world's judgment through their difficult times while having to see their mistakes every day for nine months.. you girls are amazing, I promise <3)

    -Simply Brooklyn