## Terrible Reflections ![[Terrible Reflections.jpg|400]] [Author generated AI Image from Google Gemini] This is stupid. You are stupid, and fat. You are _really_ fat. _Just_ look, wipe the steam off the mirror and look. The roundness, the chicken skin, the stretch marks, are you blind? No, that's right you're stupid. "Not tonight, I don't need this tonight." You chose *that* shirt? They are going to see your belly rolls. Everyone will see them, they will be judging you. Remember, last time, the shame you felt wearing that shirt? "Shut up!" Don't tell me to shut-up. I am telling you the truth. The only one that _will_ tell you the truth. You need to hear the truth. I'm stopping you from embarrassing yourself. You're not eighteen. "Go away. You aren't helping." Grow a pair. Harsh truth for your harsh reality. "Just stop! Why do we have this conversation every goddamned day. Why can't you just love me for who I am." Look me in the eyes and say that. I dare you. Stand in front of this mirror, look me in your eyes and say it. Look at me! We're the only one home. Say that last sentence, say it. Your reflection doesn't lie, just your mind. Isn't that what your therapist says? --- - **Song:** "Everybody Hurts" by R.E.M. (1992) - **Focus:** Write a 200-word story that explores a moment of vulnerability and the search for connection, reflecting the song's themes of loneliness, empathy, and hope. - **Suggestion:** The character doesn't have to be physically alone, but they should feel emotionally isolated. The story should convey a sense of shared human experience in the face of pain.