“You could have any guy on campus you want.” I looked at my insecure boyfriend as if he had grown two faces. In the moment, I could not tell if he truly believed those words or if he was trying to manipulate me by complimenting me. Either way, I did not believe him. “Right…” I thought. “There is no way most of the men on this campus would give me a second look. There are so many other girls who are slimmer and prettier than me. He is crazy, stupid, or both.” A few days ago, I was thumbing through some old photos when I came across a random picture of my 21-year-old self, taken by the … [Read more...]

Chronic negativity poisons a relationship. Have you experienced it? Just as pouring Roundup on weeds removes the life in them, pouring negative messages on and around your partner can suck the joy out of your connection; and, the sourness does not have to be specifically related to your partner. General pessimism can erode the sweetness of your love story, such as: Constantly complaining about work. Discussing the latest *breaking* news update. Talking about how much your lazy co-worker earns… again. Honking and yelling at traffic. Playing video games which frequently upset … [Read more...]

My post is at twenty-seven likes... forty-two likes... sixty-seven likes... a hundred likes!!!! If we are honest, we know there is something appealing about receiving recognition for our photos, ideas, and achievements. Social media can connect us with those we love, provide opportunities to rekindle friendships, and help us find others who share our interests. It can also suck us in, make us discontent with what we have, and draw us away from our loved ones. Not too long ago, I was sitting with my Mom and one of her friends at a fast-food restaurant. I was finishing up a conversation on … [Read more...]