The Universe in Knocking

The sounds

of playing children

envelop me

as I awake,

blinking into

the sunlight

The Universe

is knocking

bright eyed and

honest,

palpable and

tasting of joy

Let's Talk Romance

Let’s talk romance. Since the beginning of time, romantic relationships have been complex. The distinctions between and interconnectivity of love, lust, marriage, and sex are complicated and challenging to navigate. Today, these questions are further complicated by the addition of modern technology into the narrative. How are we communicating with each other?

Dating and communication has changed drastically in the past fifteen years. Relationships now hinge on cellular and digital communication as much as face-to-face time together. People meet online and get to know each other through messages. Potential crushes are now judged on their texting responses and thoughtfulness just as much as their communication in person… that’s hard. I am still terrible at navigating the different signals and sending “flirty” messages. My friends laugh with me and my attempts, but in all honesty, I have no idea what I am doing. (Bitmoji is my favorite thing ever created, because it can express all the things that I want to that words cannot quite capture).

I struggle with a love-hate relationship with online dating and dating apps. On the one hand, it is nice to know who is available and looking to meet other people, but on the other hand it removes the initial excitement of meeting someone and developing a crush overtime. Further, there is the challenge of finding someone who is not just looking for instant gratification and a hook-up but is genuinely interested in getting to know you. Part of my struggle is that it feels like dating apps are the only option. This feels especially true living in a big city, being out of college, and having a history of falling for guys that are unavailable. While I know plenty of people who have found their someone online, it is still difficult for me to completely buy into, yet I find myself swiping and going on dates to try to fit in and find my footing.

Ultimately, I do not know the answer, I do not know where I will I find my someone, and I do not know what the future holds or if I will ever learn how to send “flirty” messages just right. What I do know, however, is that romance and love is and has been complicated forever. It is important to remember, you are not alone in the struggle to find love, romance or whatever it is you are looking for. Good luck! (And let me know if you have any advice 😉)

Let Your Soul Breathe

Self-care is critical.

Take time to breathe, relax, and love yourself a little today.

Questions to reflect on:

· How is it with your soul today?

· What worries, concerns, and burdens are weighing you down?

· How can you honor these parts of your life while also detaching yourself from their weight?

· What makes you feel grounded?

· What brings you a sense of joy?

· List three things that brought you a sense of joy or relief this week (they can be as small as the smell of coffee)

· Ask yourself: What is one thing you can do today to take time, love yourself, and just be present with where you are right now?

Living in our world is not always easy. We are bombarded by information, squeezed for time, running from one thing to the next, and constantly feel like we are behind on schedule. We are taught to be tough and strong, successful and stable, and not to settle for less than perfection. Here is a reminder that it is okay to not be okay; It is okay to need space; It is okay to be vulnerable. You are beautiful. You are enough. You are worthy. Come as you are.

Today, remember to slow down and breathe. You are not alone. You are your own best friend, support, and guide. Take time to love yourself and let your soul breathe.