“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...]
Finding Freedom from Religion
Yesterday we celebrated Palm Sunday and now Resurrection Sunday is on its way! Though I have never been in doubt about why we celebrate Resurrection Sunday (i.e., Easter), I confess that I get drawn into the bunnies, pastels, and eggs as they are all so beautiful. We celebrate each year with eating lamb (a tradition Eric brought into our family from his family of origin) and my brother-in-law and sister-in-law come over and we eat our Easter meal together. In the early years of this tradition, I would get so stressed over making the meal that I almost completely ignored the reason for the … [Read more...]
Finding Freedom from Negativity
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...]
How to Break Free from Needing Social Media Approval
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...]
Finding Freedom from Marital Financial Pressure Before Getting Engaged
Have you ever wondered what would be the perfect gift for my future spouse? Consider this idea: financial freedom! Whether getting completely out of debt and building your savings, or working towards that end, giving your future husband or wife the gift of financial freedom is priceless. Stuff will rust or get old, but freedom is a new gift every day. Before we move forward, let us talk about what financial freedom is not. Financial freedom is not: Saving every penny and dime and not enjoying life. Sacrificing everyday items which you can easily afford (e.g., electricity, heat, air … [Read more...]