This story is a part of Lit Mag: The REDEFINED issue.
Instead of focusing on traits people have had since birth, I decided to focus on things that showed up on people during their life, something that had a story behind it. I interviewed a number of people, coming across scars, freckles, tattoos, piercings, and dyed hair. Every individual person was very different but also alike – the stories were all so personal and interesting to hear. Personally, I have scars on my body that I always try to hide. When people point them out, I cover myself and deny they’re there at all. Growing up in a society that is based around being normal and fitting in, some people try to hide any differences they have. Things I Wasn’t Born With was a way to let myself, along with others, know that my differences make me more human and more normal.