That was me. Always a tomboy: Shopping in the boy’s section of the store, playing with the boys at recess, always wishing I was a boy. I never wore dresses. I never wore pink. I was a loyal, hardcore tomboy.

It lasted so long. Folks who started out by saying “Oh, it’s just a phase all girls go through,” were concerned, and curious. Just why was I so persistent?

All my tomboy friends outgrew me. They deserted me and our champion four-square squad and went to play tether-ball on the field. I was so lonely, but I didn’t know it.

Then I met you. And you changed me.

Somehow, knowing that I loved you, with your beautiful long hair and your perfect smile…brought out my feminine side. Whenever I see you in the hallway, chatting with your girlfriends, I am reminded that I love you. I am reminded that I am a girl.

And now, as I walk up to you in my pink skirt and white top, earrings in and my hair silky smooth, I am sure that this is who I really am.

I just didn’t know it. Curious how self expression changes…