I took multiple self-portraits in my heart shaped mirror hung up in my apartment. I have shell decor posed around all over my home. When I think of shells, I think of Venus, the Goddess of Love. This photo represents isolation, loneliness, and malaise I felt post multiple friendship breakups and heartbreak. A sort of melancholy had taken over my heart, an unlucky spell, which is not very in line with Venus. I had broken up with a friend who was simultaneously my first queer crush and queer love. I was processing and grieving multiple friendship breakups, heartaches, and changes. In this image, I have short curly hair, red parted lips on, black eyeliner, and a look of anguish washing over my face. The camera is visible on the left side in the reflection of the mirror. My queer identity is a new aspect of my sexuality that I am embracing. I was not in a good place mentally when I took this self-portrait, so the mixed feelings I am conveying are authentic. I am taking a breath of fresh air and have a new outlook and perspective on my life and the past relationships I have had. I am starting to come out of my cocoon of grief and am going forward with courage rather than fear. I am moving in the direction of love with an open heart.