Tag: Relationships

Self Care

Stroke of Genius: A Hilarious Guide to Bouncing Back!

LaShawnda

Life is like a game of Mario Kart – you’re cruising along, and then BAM! A banana peel called a stroke comes outta nowhere. But guess what? You’re not just any racer; you’re the one who’s about to make an epic comeback. OH YEA! Welcome to my guide to recovering from a stroke with style, humor, and a whole lot of attitude! LET’S GO!

Mind Games: Outsmarting Brain Farts

So, you’ve got this new sidekick called Brain Farts. Forgot where you left your keys? Couldn’t remember your neighbor’s name? No worries – it’s just your brain doing the cha-cha. Embrace the mental gymnastics with brain games, puzzles, and a sense of humor. It’s like flexing your mental biceps – you’ll be a mental ninja in no time.

Bod Squad: Flexing Those Recovery Muscles

Rehab, my friend, is the new gym – Stroke Gym, that is. Say hello to your personal trainer – Physical Therapist Extraordinaire. Limbs feeling like spaghetti? Time to turn them into noodles of steel. Throw in some funky dance moves, and you’ve got yourself a workout routine that’ll make even Jane Fonda proud. Yea, I said JANE FONDA! IYKYK!

Zen Zingers: Finding Inner Chill

Spiritual renewal, anyone? Meditation, journaling, yoga, or just sitting in a comfy chair contemplating the meaning of life – whatever floats your boat. Inner peace is the new black, and you, my friend, are about to become the trendsetter. DO NOT LET ANYONE MESS WITH YOUR PEACE!

Bank Breakdance: Financial Recovery Boogie

Money got you doing the cha-cha-cha? I feel you! Time to break out the financial recovery boogie. It’s like budgeting but with more pizzazz. Cut unnecessary expenses, make a game plan, and remember – you’re not broke; you’re just pre-rich. GET ON A BUDGET! It is hard in the beginning, but it gets better! Check out The Budget Babe to get a planner that will change your life!

Crew Love: Your Ride-or-Die Support System

Nobody conquers the world alone. Your squad – family, friends, and the occasional nosy neighbor – they’re your ride-or-die crew. Let them in on the joke that life threw at you, and watch how they turn your recovery into a Blockbuster comedy. Laughter truly is the best medicine. I surround myself with good authentic crazy! I love them! Get you a crew! And please, do an inventory of your TRUE friends. No one who smiles in your face and talks behind your back. I mean, not even take up for you in a room that discusses you. Just sayin’.

Life’s a rollercoaster, and strokes are just unexpected loop-de-loops. BELIEVE ME! But guess what? You’re the daredevil ready to conquer them all. Embrace the quirky, funny side of recovery in this unpredictable world. It’s not just a comeback; it’s a stand-up comedy routine starring you. Get ready to laugh, dance, and show life that strokes ain’t got nothin’ on your inner swag. You’re not bouncing back; you’re bouncing back with a mic drop. Boom!

Self Care, Social

Helping Men Feel Safe to Share: Why They Need Support Too

LaShawnda

In a world where people often expect men to be tough and not show their feelings, the idea of creating safe places for men to open up without being judged might sound a bit different. But it’s really important for their emotional well-being. In a world where people often expect men to be tough and not show their feelings, the idea of creating safe places for men to open up without being judged might sound a bit different. But it’s really important for their emotional well-being. Men feel a lot of different things, just like anyone else, and they should have a place where they can talk about their feelings without worrying about what others might think.

The Pressure to Conform

Societal norms and traditional gender roles have historically placed a great deal of pressure on men to conform to certain expectations. Men have been expected to be strong, stoic, and unemotional, often discouraged from displaying vulnerability. This societal pressure can be stifling, leading to emotional suppression and potential mental health issues.

Men, Emotions, and Mental Health

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being. However, the reluctance to express emotions can have detrimental effects on men’s mental health. While it’s important to emphasize that men and women may experience emotions differently, this doesn’t mean that men should be denied the opportunity to express themselves emotionally.

Suppressing emotions and bottling up feelings can lead to various psychological issues, such as depression, anxiety, and anger management problems. It’s crucial to understand that vulnerability and emotional expression are not signs of weakness; rather, they are manifestations of our shared humanity.

The Benefits of Safe Spaces for Men

Creating safe spaces for men to be vulnerable without judgment offers several important advantages:

  1. Improved mental health: Encouraging emotional expression can lead to better mental health outcomes, reducing the likelihood of emotional issues going unaddressed.
  2. Strengthened relationships: Men who can openly express their emotions often find it easier to connect with others and build stronger, more meaningful relationships with friends and family.
  3. Reduced societal pressure: Safe spaces provide men with the opportunity to break free from the constraints of traditional gender norms and be their authentic selves.
  4. Enhanced self-awareness: Emotional expression fosters self-awareness, helping men better understand their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.
  5. Social support: Safe spaces offer a network of support, where men can share their experiences and find comfort in the knowledge that they are not alone in their struggles.

Creating Safe Spaces

Establishing safe spaces for men to be vulnerable isn’t about excluding women or perpetuating stereotypes; it’s about acknowledging that all individuals, regardless of gender, deserve a space where they can express their emotions openly. Here are some steps we can take to create these spaces:

  1. Encourage open communication: Promote conversations about the importance of emotional expression and its benefits within the family, workplace, and community.
  2. Challenge stereotypes: Encourage critical thinking and dialogue that challenges traditional gender roles and stereotypes, allowing men to be more authentic and emotionally expressive.
  3. Support groups and organizations: Many support groups, counseling services, and mental health organizations offer spaces for men to share their feelings and experiences. These groups can be invaluable resources.
  4. Education and awareness: Raise awareness about the importance of mental health and emotional well-being for men through workshops, seminars, and social media campaigns.
  5. Active listening: Be a good listener. Sometimes, just providing a listening ear can be incredibly supportive.

Men need safe spaces where they can be vulnerable without judgment just as much as women. Emotions are universal, and suppressing them can be harmful to one’s mental health. By creating these spaces, we can encourage men to embrace their emotions, build healthier relationships, and ultimately lead happier, more fulfilling lives. It’s time to challenge societal norms and embrace the idea that vulnerability is not a sign of weakness but a testament to our shared humanity.

Three Questions to Think About:

  1. Why should men be denied the right to express their emotions openly, just like anyone else?
  2. What if suppressing feelings leads to mental health problems and unhappiness? Shouldn’t we do something about it?
  3. Can we create safe spaces where men can be themselves without judgment?

Let’s support the idea of safe spaces for men to be vulnerable. Encourage open conversations, challenge stereotypes, and be a listening ear. It’s time to embrace everyone’s humanity and promote well-being for all. That’s my TEDTalk for today!

Join the movement. It’s as simple as that. #MenMatterToo

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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?

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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?

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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?

Marriage, Self Care, Social

When a Man Leaves You: What to Avoid and How to Heal

LaShawnda

Breakups are never easy, and when a man you once loved decides to leave, it can leave you feeling heartbroken and lost. While it’s natural to experience a mix of emotions during this time, it’s essential to take care of yourself and navigate the healing process in a healthy way. In this blog, we’ll explore some key things to avoid and essential steps to take when a man leaves you, helping you find strength and healing in the midst of this difficult time.

Avoid Blaming Yourself:
One of the first things to avoid when a man leaves you is blaming yourself for the breakup. Remember that relationships involve two people, and it’s rarely a one-sided issue. It’s natural to feel hurt and wonder what went wrong, but internalizing all the blame can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Instead, recognize that relationships can be complex, and sometimes they don’t work out for reasons beyond your control.

Give Yourself Time to Grieve:
Allow yourself to grieve the loss of the relationship. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or confused during this period. Suppressing your emotions may only prolong the healing process. Surround yourself with supportive friends or family who can lend a listening ear and provide comfort during this challenging time.

Avoid Rebounding:
Resist the temptation to jump into a new relationship immediately after a breakup. While it’s normal to seek companionship and distract yourself from the pain, rebound relationships rarely lead to genuine connections. Take the time to focus on yourself and understand what you truly want from future relationships.

Cut Off Contact (at least temporarily):
While it might be tempting to stay friends with your ex, maintaining regular contact may hinder the healing process. Consider cutting off contact (at least temporarily) to give yourself space and time to move on. Constant reminders of the past can make it difficult to look forward and embrace new opportunities.

Seek Professional Support if Needed:
If you find it challenging to cope with the emotional turmoil after the breakup, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Speaking with a therapist or counselor can provide valuable insights and coping strategies, helping you process your emotions and develop a healthier outlook on relationships.

Avoid Seeking Validation from Others:
Seeking validation from others to boost your self-esteem may feel like a quick fix, but it’s not a sustainable solution. Instead, focus on self-improvement and nurturing your self-worth from within. Engage in activities that make you feel happy and accomplished, whether it’s pursuing a hobby, career goals, or personal growth.

Allow Yourself to Love Again:
It’s normal to feel guarded after a breakup, but don’t let fear prevent you from opening your heart to love again. Remember that every relationship is unique, and finding the right person may take time. Be patient with yourself and the process.

Experiencing a breakup can be incredibly challenging, but it can also be an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. When a man leaves you, it’s crucial to avoid self-blame, give yourself time to heal and surround yourself with supportive people. Focus on self-improvement, seek professional support if needed, and remember that love will find its way back into your life when the time is right. Embrace the journey of healing, and you’ll emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.

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When a Man is Wasting Your Time: Recognizing Red Flags and Taking Control

LaShawnda

In the journey of finding a meaningful and fulfilling relationship, we encounter various people with whom we hope to build something special. However, not every encounter leads to a lasting connection, and at times, we may find ourselves entangled with someone who seems to be wasting our time. While it’s essential to approach relationships with an open heart, it’s equally important to recognize when a man may not be fully committed or sincere in his intentions. In this blog post, we will explore some telltale signs that indicate when a man is wasting your time and how to regain control of your romantic life.

Lack of Consistency

One of the clearest indicators that a man might be wasting your time is inconsistency in his behavior. He may shower you with affection and attention one day, only to become distant and aloof the next. This hot-and-cold behavior can leave you feeling confused and emotionally drained, making it challenging to build trust and a solid foundation for a genuine connection.

Ambiguity about the Relationship

Another red flag to watch out for is a man’s reluctance to define the relationship. If he avoids discussing the future or constantly sidesteps any talk about commitment, it’s a clear sign that he may not be serious about a long-term relationship with you. Don’t settle for someone who keeps you in a state of perpetual uncertainty.

Prioritizing Other Aspects of Life

While it’s natural for everyone to have priorities outside of a relationship, a man who consistently prioritizes other aspects of his life over spending quality time with you may not be fully invested. If he frequently cancels plans or doesn’t make an effort to fit you into his life, it’s a signal that you might not be a significant priority for him.

Lack of Emotional Availability

For any relationship to flourish, emotional availability and vulnerability are crucial. If a man avoids opening up about his feelings or appears distant when you share yours, it could indicate that he is emotionally unavailable. It’s essential to be with someone who reciprocates your emotional investment and supports your emotional needs.

Resisting Compromise and Communication

Effective communication and the willingness to compromise are vital for any relationship to thrive. If you find that your partner consistently refuses to address conflicts or dismisses your concerns, it can lead to frustration and resentment. A man who isn’t willing to work through challenges with you may not be genuinely interested in building a healthy and lasting relationship.

Focusing on Superficial Aspects

If a man seems overly focused on superficial aspects of the relationship, such as appearance, material possessions, or societal status, it may indicate that he values shallow qualities over meaningful connection and compatibility. A relationship built on superficialities is unlikely to stand the test of time.

Taking Control and Moving Forward

Recognizing when a man is wasting your time is the first step towards reclaiming control of your romantic life. Here are some steps you can take to move forward:

Trust Your Instincts: Listen to your gut feelings and intuition. If something feels off, don’t ignore it.

Set Boundaries: Define what you want and need from a relationship, and don’t be afraid to communicate those boundaries clearly.

Communicate Openly: Have honest conversations about your expectations and feelings. If the man isn’t receptive or doesn’t respect your concerns, it may be time to reassess the relationship.

Focus on Self-Growth: Invest time in your personal development, hobbies, and interests. Building a fulfilling life outside of a romantic relationship will empower you.

Be Willing to Walk Away: Remember that you deserve a partner who values and respects you. Don’t be afraid to walk away from a relationship that isn’t meeting your needs.

Recognizing when a man is wasting your time is essential for your emotional well-being and self-worth. By paying attention to red flags and taking control of your romantic life, you can create space for a meaningful and fulfilling relationship with someone who truly appreciates and values you. Remember, you deserve to be with someone who is as committed to building a lasting connection as you are.

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The Power of Early Boundaries in Relationships: Building Healthy Foundations

LaShawnda

Setting boundaries in relationships is a vital aspect of establishing healthy dynamics and fostering mutual respect. By defining and communicating our needs, desires, and limits from the outset, we can create a solid foundation for open communication and emotional well-being. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of setting boundaries early in relationships, understand the benefits it brings, and discuss practical ways to implement and maintain them.

1. Establishing Mutual Respect and Understanding:

Setting boundaries early on sends a clear message to both partners that their needs and feelings are valued and respected. It establishes a framework of open communication and demonstrates that each person’s individuality is honored within the relationship. By discussing boundaries at the beginning, both individuals can better understand each other’s comfort levels, expectations, and personal limits.

2. Creating Emotional Safety and Trust:

Healthy boundaries create a sense of emotional safety and trust within the relationship. When individuals feel confident in expressing their boundaries, they are more likely to be vulnerable and authentic. This fosters an environment where both partners can share their thoughts, fears, and desires without fear of judgment or rejection. Establishing trust early on paves the way for deeper emotional connection and long-term relationship satisfaction.

3. Preventing Resentment and Misunderstandings:

Without clear boundaries, relationships can be prone to misunderstandings, unmet expectations, and resentment. By setting boundaries early, partners can proactively address potential issues and avoid unnecessary conflicts. Establishing guidelines around personal space, communication preferences, and emotional needs helps ensure that both individuals are on the same page and can navigate their relationship with mutual understanding and respect.

4. Building Self-Awareness and Empowerment:

Setting boundaries requires self-awareness and introspection. It encourages individuals to examine their own needs, values, and limits, which leads to personal growth and empowerment. By clearly articulating boundaries, individuals cultivate a stronger sense of self and develop the confidence to advocate for their needs in a relationship. This self-empowerment enhances overall well-being and promotes a healthier partnership.

5. Effective Communication and Revisiting Boundaries:

Early boundary-setting establishes a foundation of effective communication. It encourages ongoing dialogue about individual needs and the evolving dynamics of the relationship. As the relationship progresses, it is essential to revisit and adjust boundaries as necessary. People grow and change over time, and boundaries may need to be redefined to accommodate new circumstances or challenges. Regularly discussing and updating boundaries ensures that both partners feel heard, understood, and supported.

Setting boundaries early in relationships is an essential component of establishing healthy and fulfilling partnerships. It creates an environment of mutual respect, emotional safety, and effective communication. By defining individual needs and limits from the outset, individuals can prevent misunderstandings, cultivate self-awareness, and build the foundation for a strong and balanced connection. Remember, setting boundaries is not about control or creating walls; it is about honoring and nurturing oneself and creating a relationship where both partners can thrive and grow together.

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After all, there is nothing greater than LOVE

Model Dee

The fact that it has taken me this long to write my first entry shows that I was probably overthinking this whole thing.   I think it was this month’s topic that kind of got me all up in arms.  When I got the topic I started thinking what in the world can I say about love.  I am not married, not dating, I don’t have any children or pets and I’m finding myself at a time in life when half of my friends are getting divorced and the other half are getting married.  Then the more thought about it (by thought I mean obsess) I kept finding myself in the same place… My current state of dealing with my last go ‘round in the love machine.

The last time I fell in love was Friday June 4, 2010 somewhere between the hours of 8pm and Midnight.  No, I am not joking and yes, I do know the date and timeframe (judge away). In fact, I remember that night as if it was yesterday.  I remember how those four hours seemed to go by in four minutes.   We attended a black-tie fundraiser and I’d been extremely nervous the entire week. After all, it was the first time we’d been out together around our mutual friends. But when I saw him that night all the nervousness disappeared and nothing and no one mattered.

Now for all the guys (and some of women) reading this I am so not one that falls easily for anyone. Nor was this a schoolgirl crush (mostly because I am literally way too old for such a thing).   I actually (for the first time in my adult life) could see us together for the long haul.  I don’t know if I actually wanted to marry him but I know that I didn’t want to be with anyone else.   I wasn’t and I am not one of those women that is just looking for a husband or someone to take care of them. I am very selective about the people in my world because like everyone in my life, I am a special person, my time is valuable and I only care to spend the moments I have in this life with people I love, trust and care about and they feel the same way about me. Heck, I don’t even have a link for people to add me as a friend on Facebook.  That is how selective I am about the people in my life and even the people who are my friends on Facebook don’t have access to my entire online life.

I’d been single (not dating) for a long time and I ‘d always been fine with it.  I have a wonderful family and carefully selected friends (not people I know, I mean friends) so life was grand. But somehow, it happened I fell in love and I fell hard. I fell in love with a man who by all accounts is/was one of the most wonderful people I’ve ever met. Even though the dynamic of our relationship has drastically changed since the night I fell in love I still think he is a wonderful person (for the most part) and I still love him.   There was something about him that just made me so comfortable…more comfortable than I’d ever been with anyone EVER.  Everything seemed so perfect even when it wasn’t…

We both love music, sports, share similar views on politics, quality of life didn’t hurt either.   Apparently, the only thing we didn’t share similar views on was each other and our relationship (sadly this isn’t a joke).   Now I won’t go into the details about how it all changed because it really doesn’t matter.  I will say we BOTH made some mistakes.  There were things that happened that I made a conscious decision to ignore and thinking back that may have not been the smartest thing but it is what it is and I can’t change it.  To be honest and to bring this whole thing full circle as much as I’ve gone through since we made the decision to limit our interaction with one another (he’ll say I made the decision), I wouldn’t change anything (except for us not being together).  Everything I did and said was out of the love I had/have for him.  I took a chance with giving my heart to someone whom I felt deserved it and yes, I am still trying to get it back (which is easier said than done).

There is nothing certain when it comes to love, this goes with family, friends and significant others.   Anytime we fall in love, we’re taking a chance, there is a chance it’ll work, and there is a chance it won’t.  Unfortunately, for me it didn’t work and it has been a difficult dealing with the drastic shift in our relationship but I learned so much about myself that sometimes (only sometimes) it made falling in love worth it.  After all, there is nothing greater than LOVE.

According to 1 Corinthians 13:13, there are three things that will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.

I have faith that our bond is stronger than words and can overcome any obstacle.

I have hope the promises we made to one another, to always be strong when the other is weak will always stand.

 And, I have more love for you than words can say and gestures could ever show.

Until next time…