Love Yourself First | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Dating

Love Yourself First

"I gave you my heart and that's all I can give you, and if that's not enough, then I'm not enough."
- Haley James-Scott

377
Love Yourself First

After my last relationship, I truly believed that I was not meant for anyone. There were a few boys here and there after him, but nothing serious. I was too afraid of commitment. I really felt like I couldn't trust anyone again. It's tough to open up to someone after being walked all over. (Especially after being cheated on and left for my ex-best friend...) After some time, I finally got enough courage built up and decided that it was time to go out into the world again–not for a relationship but for myself. I wanted to love myself.

After a month or so, I realized why people say "If you can't love yourself how can someone love you?" Once I started taking care of myself, mentally, emotionally, and physically, I started being noticed not only by guys, but family and friends. They seemed more eager to be around me and were complimenting me. It was nice. Now, this was a while before college–maybe a year and a half. I kept to myself and focused on me. I hate how I had to get my heart broken to love myself, but at least I realized my mistake–to not depend on anyone.


Before I left for college (more like when I watched my mom leave in the car), I promised myself that I'd focus on my studies and that I wouldn't fall in love with anyone. I would not lose myself again. I didn't like being vulnerable or meddled with. I didn't like my mom seeing me cry over a guy.

Until August 1st.

I received a notification from my school's app about someone commenting on a picture I posted. I had posted a picture of me holding pigeons from my trip to Puerto Rico, and a boy commented, "This would be awesome if I was a big bird fan." Not only did that spark our conversation, but it got to the point that there was a little flirting and he hid his identity because I couldn't see a current picture of him (his profile picture was from when he was younger).

I noticed you on social media after that comment and thought you were cute–actually, too cute for me–but I thought I'd give it a shot anyway and talk to you. You had these mesmerizing green eyes… Just looking at them made me feel all "blah" inside. Cheesy, right?

Eventually, I got his Snapchat.

A small note to him:

At first, I was so nervous to continue talking. I didn't know why. I was scared to get to know you because I didn't want the past to happen again. The moment I met you, I could not take my eyes off of you. I crashed into you in the elevator. You recognized me, but I didn't recognize you. I kept trying not to stare because I wasn't sure if it was you.

You were everything I wanted and more. The first time we hung out will be a day I'll never forget. You were so generous, courteous, and so funny. We were studying in your dorm room and ended up watching a movie. That was the first night I ended up sleeping in your room. It was nice. I felt safe.

You kept a smile on my face that whole night. It was strange to have these feelings back again, but I liked it. It scared me, but I liked it.

The more we hung out, the more I got to know you and the more I fell for you. I started developing these feelings that I've never felt before. It was at this point that I knew you weren't like the other boys that I have known. You were honest, you loved school, and you knew what you wanted in your life and future.

It's been said that the best love happens when you least expect it and I believe that now. You are the best blessing that came into my life right when I needed it. The feelings that I have for you are feelings I have felt once before, only stronger.

What scares me is that you've said you want me, yet do nothing about it. I don't want to lose myself again. I don't want to depend on anyone–not you. You scare me. I'm scared. My heart physically hurts. And what sucks is that I'm OK with it. Why am I OK with it?

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Relationships

10 Things That Describe You and Your College Friends

The craziest, funniest, and most unforgettable college memories are impossible to create without an amazing group of friends.

195
College Friends
Marina Lombardi

1. You'll never run out of clothes when you have at least four closets to choose from.

2. You embrace and encourage each other’s horrible, yet remarkable dance moves.

Keep Reading...Show less
RBF
Pop Trigger / YouTube

I'll admit it, I have a condition called RBF or, if you will, Resting Bitch Face.

Anna Kendrick, poor Kristen Stewart, the Queen of England are all life-long sufferers of RBF. Victoria Beckham even made a career out of it! And though it's usually used to describe women, some men are also afflicted. Kanye West is the best example of this.

Keep Reading...Show less
12 Things To Do On A Snow Day

Everyone loves a snow day! Whether you decide to call out sick from work or your classes get canceled, it is a great way to spend time with family and friends.

1. Build a snowman

People brave enough to face the weather can go outside to build an adorable man made of snow. Relive those childhood glory days, but remember to bundle up!

Keep Reading...Show less
April Ludgate
NBC Universal

Everyone who is in college right now, or has ever been, knows the struggle of pulling in the strings at the last second. It seems impossible, and you have to do a LOT of things in order to assure your future for the next semester.

April Ludgate, historically, is a very annoyed person, and she doesn't hide it. Of all the times that I binged and re-binged "Parks and Rec," her attitude relates more and more to me.

Keep Reading...Show less
Health and Wellness

To The Cheerful Person On Their Rainy Days, You Are Valid

The world is not always sunshine and rainbows, and you do not have to be, either.

865
pug covered with blanket on bedspread
Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash

Ask friends of mine to name a quality about me, and one a lot them will point out the fact that I am almost always smiling. I like to laugh and smile -- not to quote Buddy the Elf in April, but smiling is my favorite! It is probably my favorite go-to expression. However, what a lot of people do not see is that I have my down days. I have days when smiling and laughing is a real struggle, or when I have so much on my plate that going out of my way to behappy takes more effort than I have stored in me. Be it a symptom of college and growing up or a facet of life, I cannot always be content.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments