To my curly hair,

You are frizzy, dense, tangled, long, and you never want to work with me. Whenever I wish that you would look a certain way, you try to look the opposite. You do not like ponytails or humidity, and a hairbrush is your worst enemy. You break hair ties and headbands like it is your job. You do everything in your power to be inconvenient and difficult.

I used to hate you so much. I would have my people straighten you at any chance I got because I liked having simple, straight hair. Straight hair looked easy and pretty, but above all, it made me look like everyone else. I wanted to look like every other girl with straight hair so desperately. Until I was a teenager, I would wish for two things when I blew out the candles on birthdays - a pony and straight hair. By the standards of science and practicality, I didn't get either of them.

When I straightened you, I got mountains of compliments, but looking back I don't see them as kind admirations.

"Your hair looks so pretty straightened!"

"You should straighten it more often!"

It took me a long time to realize that you were a part of me and what makes me an individual. I think you are beautiful naturally, and I'm sorry that I did not believe it before. I will never stop trying to fight your frizz, I will straighten you sometimes if I feel like it, and I might throw you under a hat simply because you just do not want to work with me. Still, even in our constant battle, I will always appreciate you.

I have you because my mom has curly hair, and my sister has it too. You are a part of my body and personality, so to change you is to change who I am. You are long and heavy on my head, you get highlights in the summer sun, you turn into a post-tornado mess after being in a bun, and I love everything about you.

Thank you for making me unique, or rather, making me who I am.