Tell Yourself - Natalie Merchant

I know what you tell yourself, you tell yourself.

Look in the mirror, look in the mirror what does it show?

I hear you counting

I know you’re adding.

adding up the score.

I know, oh yes I know what you tell yourself,

Tell yourself.

Ever since Eden we’re built for pleasing everyone knows

And ever since Adam cracked his ribs and let us go

I know, oh yes I know what you tell yourself

Tell yourself

Who taught you how to lie so well

And to believe in each and every word you say?

Who told you that nothing about you is alright

It’s just no use, it’s just no good you’ll never be O.K.

Well I know, I know that wrong’s been done to you

It’s such a tough world, that’s what you say

Well I know, I know it’s easier said than done

But that’s enough girl, give it away,

Give it, give it all away

Tell yourself that you’re not pretty

Look at you, you’re beautiful.

Tell yourself that no one sees

Plain Jane invisible me, just tell yourself

Tell yourself you’ll never be Like the anorexic beauties in the magazines

Just a bargain basement Barbie Doll

No belle du jour, no femme fatale

Just tell yourself

Tell yourself there’s nothing worse

Than the pain inside and the way it hurts

But tell yourself it’s nothing new

Cause everybody feels it too

They feel it too

And there’s just no getting 'round

The fact that you’re thirteen right now