Uncategorized

Who Am I… Today?

Renee Aaron Events

Who Am I… Today? That’s a question I often ask of myself or have submitted to friends I’ve been  in conversation with lately. As a 40+ year old, wife and mother of four, I can often forget who I am. I often have to acknowledge that the person I was 20yrs , two years ago, 2 months ago and even 2 days ago are not the same person TODAY! 

It’s hard to face the reality that change will occur, most importantly it’s inevitable. The beauty is that once we embrace the change, new found revelations arise. But the hard part is to begin the process and walk out the new change and adjustment.  

Lately, there has been A LOT of change happening in my life. It’s been so much change I had to really ask myself if something is wrong with me. There HAS to be something wrong with me… I’m doing SOMETHING wrong,  seriously. Things are coming at me from so many angles. I can’t seem to catch a wave at my back, not taking me under face forward.  Welp, interesting enough, I started therapy again going on a month now. I needed to speak with a professional other than my friends and husband. Literally, in my first session I was like here is a run down of all the things happening. My therapist then replied, “ I was going to give you a pop quiz, but this is better,” and chuckled a little.  After going into my third week, my therapist stated that though she hasn’t finished my intake, she has come up with a pretty good diagnosis for me”. She stated that everyone HAS to be diagnosed with something when seeking therapy…. Mine, Adjustment Disorder in the alignment with Depression and Financial Strain and Unresolved Issues with Grief. She then asked me, how does that sound? My reply, it tracks. I then said, no one likes labels when it comes to therapy, but this one… it aligns. She then said ok and we proceeded forward. 

So, I ask the question again, “Who Am I.. Today?” Today I’m a wife, a mother, a career woman trying to find the normal in her life due to so many adjustments. Trying to find stability with some ripples, but nothing to the point where I’m drowning. I have to remind myself that, GOD knew ALL of these moments in my life would occur. HE knew that this moment would bring me here. I remembered writing in a blog space was another form of therapy, but also providing transparency for those who also feel like they’re “alone” when in actuality they’re not. I’m here to remind you that who you are today, will not be the person you will be in two days because maybe that glimmer of hope or that sigh of relief, that door of opportunity will open up, changing what you think is a new result. But in the end, it was all a part of GOD’s plan, even though we can’t see it… We WIN in the end. We just have to stay focused even if we do change who we are.  

So right now… today… I’m allowing myself to just BE. 

Self Care, Uncategorized

MasterPeace

Michelle Niemi

“When you master your mind, you master peace.”

A new, wise friend shared this with me about a month ago and it’s been stuck in my head ever since. Master your mind. Master peace. Masterpiece. It makes so much sense. So simple.. Let’s talk about mental health. I know LaShawnda just touched on the impact of social media on mental health, but let’s talk a little about the darker sides of it and how to get help. I’m no expert but I know a thing or two.

Once a taboo subject, we’re hearing about this everywhere these days. Often we hear about celebrities with mental health issues that have taken their own lives. Or we know someone who has. These were minds in crisis. These were minds that needed attention and help from someone to manage the stress and monsters in the closet that no one else can quite understand. Some people need medication. Others need to simply talk and share. I find myself in that latter category. 

Sometimes life is unbearable. Sometimes we know why, and can point to a person or situation that is causing the breakdown in our minds. Perhaps it is a job or family member or some other stressor that is wreaking havoc. Other times we have absolutely no idea it’s even happening. Some of us are fortunate enough to be self aware and are able to reach out before things turn really dark. Not everyone in a mental health crisis is suicidal or unpredictable. Sometimes we just need a moment to reset and recalibrate.

Mental health days. That’s a new term for those of us in Generation X or before. No one ever talked about these things before but in 1992 the World Federation for Mental Health and the World Health Organization declared October 10th to be a day to increase awareness. Since then, it is not uncommon to hear someone say they need a mental health day. Some organizations and workplace even provide it. What that means is the person is not sick, not on vacation, but just needs a mental break from everything. Everything could be work, working from home, people, daily stressors, anything that is causing a mental struggle.

The truth is, you DO have to master your own mind to have peace. How can you have peace if there is a constant war or struggle going on mentally? Maybe there isn’t even a known cause…maybe it’s some sort of chemical misfire in the brain. Again, I’m not an expert on this subject but know for a fact there have been times I needed a mental health day. There have been times in my life I reached out to counseling professionals to help me through a rough patch in life. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, self-care is not always yoga and bubble baths. Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself is take a mental break, and if you can’t do it alone, call in an expert to help you. There is nothing wrong with asking for help and that is one of the biggest misconceptions in today’s society. You don’t have to have friends or family to lean on. Maybe they’re the last people on earth you would want to vent or talk to. We have a world of first class counselors, therapists, and support groups at our disposal.

Therapy is not always costly. If you don’t have insurance, there are plenty of options available. Look around. If you live in Michigan, go to: https://www.opencounseling.com/michigan.

Or look here at https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists. If you live in another state or country, Google is your friendly resource to help.

If you or someone you know is suicidal, please call: the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.

Master your mind. Master peace. Best advice ever.

Self Care, Social

The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Trends and Concerns

LaShawnda

In this busy age of technology, where the world is at our fingertips, it’s undeniable that social media has become an integral part of our lives. From staying connected with loved ones to discovering new interests, social media has transformed the way we interact and share experiences. But as we dive deeper into the digital realm, it’s crucial to pause and ponder: What is the true impact of social media on our mental health? Good question, aye? Let’s go…

The Positive Side of Social Media

Before we delve into the concerns, it’s essential to acknowledge the positive aspects that social media brings to our lives. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok serve as bridges connecting us to friends and family across the globe. They provide an avenue for self-expression, creative outlets, and an opportunity to build communities around shared interests. Furthermore, social media has proven instrumental in raising awareness about mental health itself, breaking down stigma, and encouraging conversations that promote understanding and empathy.

Trends in Social Media and Mental Health

Digital Detox and Mindful Usage: As people become more conscious of their online habits, the concept of “digital detox” is gaining traction. It involves taking breaks from social media to recharge and recalibrate. Mindful usage is another trend, where individuals learn to engage with social media in a way that’s positive and enriching rather than overwhelming.

Body Positivity and Authenticity: In response to the pressure of curated images and unattainable beauty standards, there’s a growing movement towards body positivity and authenticity. Influencers and individuals are embracing their imperfections, sharing their real selves, and celebrating diverse body types, leading to a more inclusive online space.

Supportive Online Communities: Niche communities are flourishing on social media, offering a safe haven for individuals dealing with various mental health issues. These spaces foster a sense of belonging and provide valuable resources, making individuals feel less alone in their struggles.

Concerns Surrounding Social Media and Mental Health

Comparison and Envy: One of the significant concerns is the “comparison trap.” Constant exposure to carefully curated lives on social media can lead to feelings of inadequacy and envy. Remembering that what we see online is often a highlight reel, not the full story.

Cyberbullying and Harassment: The “namelessness” provided by the internet sometimes brings out the worst in people, leading to cyberbullying and harassment. Such experiences can harm mental health, causing anxiety, and depression, and even driving individuals to isolation.

Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): FOMO is another challenge stemming from our connectedness. Seeing friends and acquaintances engage in seemingly exciting activities can bring up feelings of exclusion and loneliness.

Validation and Self-Worth: Relying on social media for validation can be problematic. The number of likes, comments, and shares can start to define one’s self-worth, leading to fluctuations in confidence based on online interactions.

In this digital age, social media has the power to shape our perceptions, attitudes, and mental well-being. As we continue to navigate this powerful realm, it’s important to strike a balance between our online and offline lives. Practicing digital detox, engaging mindfully, and seeking out supportive communities can contribute to a healthier relationship with social media. Let’s remember that while social media offers connectivity and creativity, our mental health should always be our top priority. OK? TOP PRIORITY!

Social

Fear is WHACKALICOUS!

LaShawnda

Since that stroke came at me, speaking to a crowd hasn’t been my strong suit, especially when the spotlight’s on and the crowd’s huge. My mind and my mouth aren’t exactly syncing up. I know what I want to say, but it’s like my words decide to do the Tamia hustle. Right now, I’m working it out, thanks to my buddy’s recent 50th birthday bash, which woke me all the way up!

So my friend asked me to bless the food. Bless the food! Why did I freeze up? I was about to cruise up to the microphone until I stood up and peeped all those faces. I grabbed the mic, ready to say a blessing over the food, but bam, my words were all like, “Nah, we’re gonna take a vacay from making sense.” (LOL) I tried to catch a breath, but it was like my lungs went on a rogue mission.

Ugh, no coming back from that, but believe me, it won’t go down like that again! That whole ordeal lit a fire under me and got me committing to putting in the time to master speaking up, whether it’s a tight-knit crew or an entire squad watching.

You know that verse, right? God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind. Just that verse alone wipes away any jitters I got about public speaking. This little episode taught me a thing or two. I was feeling all kinds of embarrassed and down. Thought I straight-up wrecked my buddy’s birthday bash. But all I kept hearing as I stumbled was him saying, “It’s OK.” Then he hits me with, “You’ve always been shy.” That’s when I’m thinking, “Man, why didn’t you hit up someone else or give me a minute to prep?” Haha, but no hard feelings. Carrying a smidge of embarrassment and rosy cheeks, but with time, that’s gonna fade. More opportunities are gonna roll in for me to bless him and others with my words.

It’s an honor praying for someone and spreading the love of Jesus Christ. I will continue to do it until I cannot anymore!

Please share this message with someone and share your comments below.

Social

The Crazy Ride of Finding My Words After a Stroke

LaShawnda

Check this out… life’s throwing you curveballs like it’s a full-time job. You’re out here just doing your thing, when bam! You get hit with a stroke – like, really universe? A stroke? It’s this wild ride that leaves you with scars you can’t see on the surface. But guess what? I found this way to make sense of it all that’s kinda unique – I started pouring my thoughts onto paper instead of blabbering them out. By the way, depending on who you are, my speaking will not come out right… even more. (LOL)

The Stroke and Me – A Struggle to Talk

Let’s talk about strokes for a hot second. These sneaky things mess with your brain’s mojo by playing with your blood flow. Suddenly, words start doing a disappearing act – like, c’mon brain, where you at? Aphasia, a language disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate, creeps in, and you’re left struggling to make sense of what’s coming out of your mouth. It’s a communication carnival gone wrong, and it’s no fun. OMG, TRUST ME!

Meet My Lifeline: Writing

But hold up, I’m not about to let a stroke be the boss of me. Hecky to the naw! Enter: my “guilty unknown pleasure” writing. Turns out, while my mouth’s playing hooky, my hands are all like, “We got this!” When the connection between my brain and vocal cords took a hit, my writing skills just sat there, cool as a cucumber. So, I traded my voice for a pen, and let me tell you – it’s been a game-changer. What was once a method to clear my mind through journal writing has transformed into my secondary passion with crafting being my first love.

From Slow Start to Epic Win

Now, let’s keep it real. This writing thing wasn’t a walk in the park. Starting out, I felt like a toddler trying to build a sandcastle without any sand. My motor skills were acting like the giraffe in the Detroit Zoo commercial from the ’80s where he asked “ My lines, my lines I can’t remember my lines!“? (LOL) Crafting even a single sentence was like learning the Tamia hustle, which I STILL cannot do without tripping over my feet! But hey, I’m not one to back down from a challenge. IYKYK!

With time, grit, and an “I’m-not-giving-up” attitude, I started seeing progress. Every word on that paper was a small victory – like a high-five from my brain saying, “You got this!” It wasn’t just about getting words out; it became my way of saying, “I’m still here, and I’ve got stories to tell!” And Lord knows I do!

It’s More Than Just Words

Writing after a stroke isn’t just about getting my thoughts out there; it’s like a rollercoaster that takes me through my own thoughts and feelings. There’s no judgment, no rush – just me and my words having a heart-to-heart. It’s like my little sanctuary where I can lay it all out without worrying about someone interrupting.

Show Some Love

Now, don’t even get me started on the world out there. We’re living in a microwave society, where everything’s gotta be instant. RIGHT NOW! But my writing? That’s a slow-cooked masterpiece. (By the way, if you have any good slow cooker meals. email them to me. Please and thank you.) So, here’s the memo: when you’re talking to someone who’s on this writing journey post-stroke, ditch the quick judgments. OK? Geez! I don’t claim to be a perfect writer, that’s why I love chunking information into bullet points and it’s less stress for me. Writing takes time, effort, and a whole lot of heart.

Breaking Boundaries, Changing Mindsets

In a world that loves to stick labels on everything, I’m breaking the damn mold. My words aren’t just on paper; they’re breaking barriers, showing that there’s more than one way to communicate. I’m redefining what it means to have a voice – and guess what, it’s powerful.

Wrap It Up, Already

Surviving a stroke isn’t for the faint of heart. Ooh wee! It’s like getting a ticket to an unpredictable ride. But you know what’s even wilder? Finding my way through writing. It’s my therapy, my rebellion, my comeback story. So, if you meet someone who’s scribbling instead of shouting, give ’em a nod. They’re on a journey that’s slow, tough, and beautiful. And trust me, you won’t want to miss a single word of it.

I know many of you are wondering what caused me to have a stroke. Hmm, that’ll be another post. Stay tuned.

Be sure to like and share this article. Maybe it’ll be useful to someone.

See ya on the next post!

Technology

AI “Supercharged”!

LaShawnda

Google, the tech giant we all know and love, is on a mission to take its smart Assistant to the next level with some serious AI magic. They wanna “supercharge” it, man! And you know what that means? Crazy improvements and more mind-blowing features to help us with our daily grind.

Think about it: Google Assistant becomes your ultimate virtual buddy, knowing you better than your own mama does. It’ll anticipate your needs, crack jokes that actually make you laugh, and handle tasks like a pro. We’re talking about a whole new level of smart, my friend!

But here’s the catch – not everyone’s gonna be celebrating this leap forward. Nah, there’s some downside to all this AI wizardry. Unfortunately, some of Google’s awesome staff members might get the short end of the stick. Yup, losing their jobs in the process. And that’s definitely a bummer.

It’s a tough pill to swallow. On one hand, we’re geeking out about the futuristic possibilities of AI-powered Assistants, but on the other, we’re feeling for those folks whose livelihoods are on the line. It’s like a double-edged sword, and it ain’t an easy choice.

Google’s gotta walk a tightrope here, balancing the pursuit of innovation with the responsibility to its employees. Finding that harmony ain’t easy, I tell ya. But hey, maybe there’s a silver lining somewhere. Maybe, just maybe, those talented folks losing their gigs could find new opportunities in the tech world or other industries.

At the end of the day, it’s a reminder that we’re living in a time of rapid tech advancement, and change is inevitable. It’s both thrilling and nerve-wracking, man. We gotta keep our eyes peeled on how Google handles this transition and what they’ll do to support their crew.

So, let’s hope that Google keeps it real, ya know? Balancing progress with compassion and doing right by their peeps. And let’s cross our fingers that the AI-powered Assistant they’re brewing up will be worth it – not just for them, but for all of us, too!

Read the article here: Google Assistant to be ‘supercharged’ with AI like ChatGPT and Bard | The Independent

Social

Building Trust and Intimacy in a Relationship

LaShawnda

Building trust and intimacy in a relationship is a beautiful and essential journey that requires time, effort, and genuine commitment from both partners. Trust and intimacy form the foundation of a strong and lasting bond, allowing couples to feel secure, understood, and emotionally connected. Here are some key steps to help build trust and intimacy in a relationship:

Open Communication: Honest and open communication is the cornerstone of trust and intimacy. Create a safe space for sharing thoughts, feelings, and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment. Active listening is crucial; give your partner your undivided attention, and be genuinely interested in their experiences and emotions.

Vulnerability and Honesty: Be willing to be vulnerable with each other, sharing your fears, insecurities, and past experiences. Honesty strengthens trust, and being transparent about your thoughts and emotions fosters a deep connection.

Consistency and Reliability: Consistently show up for your partner, not just in the big moments but also in the small, everyday interactions. Be reliable and dependable, keeping your promises and commitments.

Respect and Empathy: Respect your partner’s boundaries, opinions, and choices. Show empathy by understanding and validating their feelings, even if you don’t always agree.

Shared Experiences: Engage in activities together that bring joy and build shared memories. Whether it’s traveling, cooking together, or trying new hobbies, shared experiences create a sense of togetherness.

Physical Affection: Physical touch is a powerful way to build intimacy. Hold hands, hug, cuddle, and engage in affectionate gestures that reinforce your emotional connection.

Forgiveness and Acceptance: No one is perfect, and conflicts are a natural part of any relationship. Learn to forgive and accept each other’s flaws, working through challenges as a team.

Quality Time: Set aside quality time for each other without distractions. This dedicated time allows you to deepen your emotional bond and create cherished memories.

Support and Encouragement: Be each other’s biggest cheerleaders. Support your partner’s goals and dreams, and encourage them to pursue their passions.

Shared Decision-Making: Involve each other in decision-making processes and respect each other’s opinions. Collaboration and compromise strengthen the relationship.

Express Gratitude: Show appreciation for the little things your partner does for you. Expressing gratitude fosters a sense of mutual appreciation and warmth.

Continual Growth: Embrace personal growth and encourage your partner to do the same. As you both evolve individually, your relationship will also grow stronger.

Remember that building trust and intimacy is an ongoing process. It requires patience, understanding, and a genuine desire to connect deeply with your partner. By nurturing these qualities, you can create a relationship that stands the test of time and brings joy and fulfillment to both of you. Trust me!

What are your thoughts?

Family

When Trust is Betrayed: The Pain of a Spouse with Kids Cheating with a Friend’s Boyfriend or Girlfriend

LaShawnda

Let’s talk about the harsh reality of infidelity. It’s like a bomb that goes off in a relationship, tearing it apart, and when kids are in the mix, it’s like a freaking nuclear explosion. That sh*t affects innocent lives, and it’s not cool at all.

See, infidelity ain’t just a simple act of cheating. Nah, it’s a whole damn puzzle with pieces from different places. You got issues in the marriage, lack of communication, emotional disconnect – all that stuff adds fuel to the fire. And when a spouse cheats with a friend’s boo, damn, that’s like a betrayal on steroids. Now you got trust and loyalty issues mixed in too. And trying not to “catch a case” is so hard to do, but you have to remain calm and classy during this time.

Now, hold up, let’s not be quick to judge. There are reasons behind this messed up behavior. Sometimes it’s deeper than just being unhappy in a marriage. Personal insecurities, emotional vulnerabilities – they play a part too. Cheating might feel like an escape, some excitement from a boring life. And getting cozy with a friend’s partner? Maybe it’s about finding comfort in the familiar.

Look, everyone’s situation is different, alright? Some folks chase after the affair, while others stumble into it like a drunken mess. But no matter how it happens, the consequences are devastating. The damage ripples through everyone’s lives. The spouse gets hurt, the friend gets hurt, and the kids get caught in the middle of this sh*tstorm.

It’s like the aftermath of a tornado, man. Emotional trauma, trust shattered into a million pieces and self-esteem in the gutter. And you know what’s worse? The friendships get torn apart too. Trust goes down the drain, and it’s hard to pick up the pieces.

But there’s hope. Healing from this madness ain’t easy, but it’s possible. Open communication is key. Both partners need to talk and listen without judging each other. And sometimes, they need to bring in the pros – therapy can help sort out this emotional mess.

Taking responsibility is crucial too. The cheater has to own up to their mistakes and the pain they caused. No sugar-coating sh*t. And rebuilding trust? It’s a damn marathon, not a sprint. It takes time, effort, and a whole lot of patience. And I mean a WHOLE LOT OF PATIENCE!

Having a support network is clutch. Surrounding yourself with understanding peeps can lift you up when you’re down. They’ll have your back while you try to piece your life back together.

Infidelity sucks, man. It’s like a hurricane that tears apart families and friendships. But with determination, empathy, and a willingness to change, folks can rebuild and come out stronger. It’s a rough road, no doubt, but there’s a glimmer of hope at the end of it.

What are your thoughts?

Social

Understanding Men’s Emotions and Behavior

LaShawnda

Understanding men’s emotions and behavior has been an interesting journey for me. As I’ve navigated the complex world of relationships and examined the depths of the male psyche, I’ve come to realize that men, just like anyone else, experience a multitude of emotions and exhibit diverse behaviors. It’s a beautiful complexity that deserves our attention and empathy.

At times, men may appear guarded, like a fortress protecting their emotions. But behind that detached facade lies a realm of feelings that they may find difficult to express. Society’s expectations and stereotypes often pressure men to be strong, unyielding, and emotionally resilient. However, beneath that societal armor are hearts that can be equally tender, yearning for connection and understanding.

In my personal interactions with men, I’ve learned that they value trust and vulnerability immensely. Just like anyone else, they crave a safe space where they can lower their defenses and open up without fear of judgment. Patience and a listening ear can work wonders, inviting them to share their emotions, dreams, and fears.

It’s essential to recognize that men, like women, have emotional needs and desires. They long for affection, appreciation, and validation. Sometimes, their way of expressing emotions may differ from what we expect, but it’s crucial to look beyond the surface and understand the nuances of their communication.

Men may find solace in activities that allow them to process their emotions indirectly. Hobbies, sports, or even spending time alone can be avenues through which they cope with life’s challenges. While it may not always be evident, these outlets often provide them with a sense of balance and rejuvenation.

In conflicts and challenging situations, men may resort to problem-solving mode, seeking to fix issues rather than delve into emotional discussions. As a partner, being patient and allowing them the space to process their emotions in their own way can foster a healthier resolution.

I’ve discovered that men also appreciate being supported and encouraged in their personal growth and ambitions. When they feel seen and valued for their efforts, they are more inclined to open up emotionally and share their inner world.

As I’ve learned to understand men’s emotions and behavior better, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of their vulnerability and the strength in their sensitivity. Just like women, they experience joy, heartbreak, anxiety, and love in their unique way.

Ultimately, understanding men’s emotions and behavior is about breaking free from stereotypes and embracing the complexity of the human experience. It’s about creating an environment where men feel safe to be their authentic selves, without the burden of societal expectations. By doing so, we can build deeper connections and nurture relationships that thrive on empathy, trust, and genuine emotional intimacy.

So that’s my TED Talk for today. What are your thoughts?

Social

Long-distance Relationship Tips

LaShawnda

Yo, long-distance relationships can be tough as hell but don’t sweat it, ’cause I got your back with some real talk advice. I’ve been through the highs and lows of a long-distance thing, and I know it’s no joke. So, here are some tips to keep that spark alive even when miles apart:

 Communication is Key, Fam: Seriously, you gotta keep those lines of communication wide open. Text, call, video chat, whatever works for you. But don’t leave each other hanging, and be real about your feelings. If something’s bothering you, spill it out, and listen up when your partner has something to say, too.

Schedule Those Calls and Visits: Life gets busy, but you gotta make time for each other. Set up regular call times, so you can catch up on what’s poppin’ in each other’s lives. And if possible, plan visits to get that face-to-face lovin’ ’cause nothing beats hugging it out in person.

Get Creative with Tech: We’re living in the age of tech, so use it to your advantage. Send cute texts, voice notes, memes, and even spicy pics if you’re into that (consensually, of course). Embrace the digital world to make each other feel connected even when you’re far away.

Keep it Spicy, Keep it Real: Long-distance can sometimes lead to things getting a bit stale. So, keep the romance alive, and don’t forget to flirt, compliment, and surprise each other. Also, be real with each other about your fears and insecurities. It’s all about being open and honest, fam.

Trust and Jealousy – Handle It: Trust is the foundation, so don’t let jealousy mess it up. Sure, it’s easy to get insecure, but don’t let that stuff drive a wedge between you two. If you feel a little jealous, talk about it, and reassure each other. Trust goes both ways, remember that.

Shared Goals and Future Plans: Talk about your future together, like where you see this relationship going. Having shared goals and plans can keep you both focused and motivated to make it work.

Live Your Life Too: Being in an LDR doesn’t mean your life stops. Go out with your friends, have hobbies, and stay active. A happy you make for a happy relationship. Plus, you’ll have some cool stories to share when you catch up.

Get Creative with Date Nights: Even if you can’t physically go out together, you can still have dope date nights. Watch the same movie or show while video chatting, play online games, or cook the same meal together virtually. Long-distance dating can be fun if you make it so.

Patience is a Virtue: Look, it won’t always be smooth sailing. There will be times when things get tough, and you might feel down. Stay patient and understanding with each other. Ride out the bumps, and you’ll come out stronger on the other side.

Have an End Game in Mind: Eventually, you gotta have a plan to close that distance, right? Discuss how and when you’ll be together for real. Having that end game in mind keeps you focused and hopeful.

Remember, a long-distance relationship takes effort from both sides. But if you’re committed, willing to communicate, and support each other, distance ain’t nothin’ but a number. Keep that love alive, stay true, and you’ll make it through. You got this!

What are your thoughts?