Most people brush off heartbreak. Those people have never been through it or have forgotten the pain, because having your heart broken changes you. And I don't only mean romantic relationships. Lots of things can break your heart, like the end of a friendship, or a parent's divorce. For the sake of a dear friend of mine that is going through something right now, we're going to talk about those of the romantic variety.

Did you read the Twilight series? Okay, I'm joking. Basically, every girl has and even some guys. Though I think we can all agree it wasn't the best series ever, Stephanie Meyer got one thing very right, and that's the illustration of Bella's heartbreak. I remember her saying it felt like a hole in her chest for months on end, and that's the best description I've ever heard. When you're in the throes of true heartbreak it feels like borderline physical pain, and I don't think many people realize that. People expect you to be down for a few weeks maybe, but not much more than that. In reality, it may be months before you stop hurting, or even a year. And even after that, you will still think of that person for a good long time. Everyone is different and heals differently. It will take a while.

Honestly, I think relationships are pretty messed up nowadays. We sometimes act like dating is like grocery shopping, trying out new people until you find one that fits. It's just the society we live in. But what if I told you that you were never supposed to give away pieces of your heart? I don't think that we have a cap on the amount of love we can give to people, but I also don't think repeated serious relationships are going to have no effect on the state of your heart. If you're heartbroken now, that doesn't really help, I know. But it's something to keep in mind. I said all that to say I know you probably thought he was the one, and please don't feel foolish for thinking that. Even if you were wrong, don't think of it as wasted love or time. You got to love an equally amazing human being, right? Right or wrong, they'll always be special to you and you should cherish that. At the same time, don't go back to them; the reasons for it ending haven't changed.

You'll heal. Until then, don't be afraid to cry. Eat some ice cream. Get some sleep. Talk it out with your friends. Pray about it. He listens, I promise. Listen to sad songs, but make sure to throw some happy ones in there, too. Smile even if it kills you inside.

And for when you get lonely, which will be often, remember, "Be with the person you want by your side at two on Saturday afternoon when you're happy, not two in the morning when you're lonely."