Sitemap - 2019 - Crystal Clear News

The Terrible Price of the Un-Lived Life

Show Me On The Doll Where This Year Hurt You

Crystal's Week-in-Review

Tilting into Loneliness

30 Easy Ways to Love Yourself Better

I have a short silk robe the exact color of my eyes that I love.

How to Win at Everything & Lose All Your Friends in the Process

I don’t trust writers who can’t be honest about their need for validation or their ambitions.

Bridging the Distance Between Us

Things to Plan Over Coffee

That’s great advice!

Bing Crosby, You, & Me

I’m so glad we finally got to meet!

The One Word I Credit for My Success

Hide & Seek for Lovers

Suicide Inside Us

Crystal's Week-in-Review

The Pressure to Find the Right Word

7 Things We Need to Live Our Best Lives — And One Thing We Don’t

This may be the best title in the history of titles!

Your Relationship Might Need You to Lean In, Not Level Up

Wishing You a Very Merry Holiday

Celebrate Your Friends’ Successes Like Your Own

Pioneer Your Own Way of Being

Every Day Damage That’s Destroying Our Relationships

Crystal's Week-in-Review

Give Me Snow-Globe Moments

Do You Want to Build a Snowman — But You Live in the South & Can’t?

Breathing Deeply — Perhaps for the First Time

The Game Guide You’ll Need to Binge the Hallmark Christmas Countdown

Sometimes, the Distance Just Hurts

Crystal's Week-in-Review

Your One-Stop Shop for Holiday Merry-Making

The Problems, Not Your Partner, are the Problem

Every Writer Needs a Murder Board

Every Story is a Love Story

I love this so much, and I’m so glad you started writing here.

George Bailey is All of Us

Thank you!

Thank you!

We really do, in my totally biased opinion!

Thank you for your lovely and insightful comment!

It really does suck when we’re in the thick of it.

Thank you for your kind words!

Thank you!

Thank you for reading and for your kind comment!

I would be a fan of that, too.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside

Thank you for reading!

That sounds lovely! I hope you had the best time!

Thanks for reading! Glad you enjoyed it

Thank you for reading!

I have that same experience. Thank you for reading and for your insightful comment!

Absolutely! It can be such a helpful tool. Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

Boundaries and self-care come down to health more than entitlement in my opinion.

I’ve evaluated my own relationship with the concept of marriage, so I understand that.

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for your kind comment! I appreciate you!

Agreed! I’m a big fan of doing whatever works, even if it’s multiple techniques.

I would dispute “powerless”.

Thank you! I appreciate your kind words!

I do, too!

Thank you so much!!!!

I love that! Thank you so much for reading.

Agreed! Thank you for reading!

Right??? Thanks for reading!

Thanks so much for reading!

It may seem obvious, but I think sometimes that’s why it gets taken for granted.

Thank you, Jan! I appreciate that!

I think many of us struggle with this one.

Thank you for reading and for taking the time to leave a comment! I appreciate you!

I love that! Thank you so much for reading and for your lovely comment!

Absolutely agreed! Thank you for reading.

Thank you! I wish you well, too!

Thank you so much!

I don’t assume that love is instantaneous, but I do think that if you know someone isn’t the one…

Absolutely! Full, enthusiastic consent matters!

It’s the same with married women — or even people in relationships. It’s not kind though.

Ugh! That happens all the time!

Agreed. But I fully lay the fault at the feet of the person who’s cheating.

It would make things so much easier, and we’d have so much less heartache!

Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment!

I do understand the budgeting restrictions and kid appetites.

I’m so glad you found your silver lining!

Thank you for reading! I wish you all the best as well.

That sounds like so much fun!

Absolutely!

I’m so glad it was helpful! Thank you so much for reading!

So true!

Agreed. We can’t make others communicate. We can only work on ourselves.

lol Thanks for the laugh and for reading!

Absolutely! I’ve definitely been there. Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Agreed! It just damages relationships.

That’s such an interesting perspective. Thank you for reading!

It’s a familiar story.

Thank you for reading!

A Novel Way to Celebrate the Holidays

Crystal's Week-in-Review

Transmuting Pain into Healing

Transitioning From Hectic Holidays to Mindful Moments

We’re Supposed to Fail at the Things Not Meant For Us

How does this not have a million views? So incredibly apt!

The Learning Curve of Healthy Relationships: Practice Makes Progress

25 Ways to Express Love Without Saying “I Love You”

I'm thankful for you!

Relationship Goals in Three Steps

How to Trust that the Universe Has Our Best Interests at Heart

Crystal's Week-in-Review

Wildly Enthusiastic & Desperately in Love

Striking Similarities Between Writing & Relationships

37 Ways to Go From Hygge to Happy

15 Helpful Things I Learned from Failed Relationships

10 Ways to Date with Integrity

Broken is Beautiful

Crystal's Week-in-Review

Writing is More Than a Labor of Love

25 Things to Do When You Love Someone

If Only You’d Come Closer

The End (Is Never Really The End)

7 Things I Learned from a Bottle of Wine

How to Live (& Write) the Middle Parts of Your Love Story

Saved by the Books

If Dating is Boring, You’re Doing it Wrong

Crystal's Week-in-Review

Thoughts Fueled by Wine & Silence

Breaking the Spell of Adulthood

Ask Your Heart What Makes It Happy

Pearls, Falling Leaves, & Train Cars

Therapy Didn’t Save Me; I Did

Toxic Relationships are Self-Harming

I’m Not the Kind Who Gets Divorced

Crystal's Week-in-Review

I’m fully intending to get both of my kids braces when the time comes.

I got braces on at 35 and got them off just shy of 37.

When I started running, I actually signed up for a 5k to motivate me to train.

The Truth & The Hanged Man

The Entitlement of Love

Reading My Own Words Back to Me

Featured Articles & Other News

A Solitary Witch Brews Self-Love

Bad Apple Dating

Under the Glittering Expanse of Stars

The Queen of Extracurriculars

Everything You Want is Waiting for You

Posts from Crystal Jackson on Medium

Something in the Blue

Just Crown Me “Best Partner Ever”

Online Doesn’t Mean Available to Chat

A Joy Shared is a Joy Doubled

Thank you!

Feel free to share away!

Love Comes Home to Me

Thank you so much for your kind words. I appreciate you reading, and I’m happy it inspired you!

I’m glad this resonated with you and helped you find the words you needed. Thank you for reading!

What a lovely way to look at it! Thank you for reading!

I’m glad that it helped you when you needed it. Take care, and thank you for reading!

Thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read and comment!

It never seems to go well in my extensive experience.

Agreed! I did the same — met my person when I was single, happy, and not looking for anything.

Agreed completely! Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading! :)

Yes! Thank you for reading and for taking the time to leave a comment —even if I am slow to respond.

Thank you for reading and for your lovely comment!

Thank you so much for that insight!

I think there’s so much game playing on the front end of dating that we don’t really know if it’s…

It can be easy to compromise, but it never works out well in the end. Be happy!

It’s hard not to attach ourselves to the results, but in the end, we have to write what we need to…

Thank you!

Haha thanks!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

I wouldn’t blame you.

It’s funny because it’s true. LOL

Thank you for sharing this beautiful poem with me!

We truly do, but it’s easier said than done. We’ll keep working on it!

I also was not blessed with patience.

You are most welcome!

Thank you for reading! It’s appreciated!

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, and thank you for taking the time to read this.

Thank you very much!

I’m so glad it resonated with you.

I don’t have an issue dancing when I feel like it, but I was in a different frame of mind, which is…

We’ve all been there. Thank you so much for reading and for your kind comment!

Agreed 100%

Not just yours. Hang in there!

Even in writing groups, I sometimes feel like I’m spamming when we’re all supposed to be there…

I’m so glad you thought so. Thank you for reading, Pam!

Thank you! And thanks so much for reading!

I’m so glad it was helpful for you. Thank you so much for reading!

Thank you for reading!

We are outnumbered in the South! It’s a real problem sometimes. Thank you for reading!

That’s kind of you to say! Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment.

Exactly! Thank you for taking the time to read and comment.

I’m trying to do a better job with this, even with my closest friends and my partner.

Thank you for reading and for your insights!

It really does.

Thank you very much for the support!

Thank you for reading I like to lean a bit, as needed. :)

It’s the dating culture.

Right? I like having the balance.

Yes, balance is key! Thank you for reading.

Thank you so much! :)

I think teaching personal safety and consent can go a long way to teaching a child what is…

Thank you for reading!

Here’s a truth bomb you may not enjoy but is applicable: if you were with someone who did that to…

It happens entirely too often, but we learn and get better.

I think lower energy people can also find ways to balance when being with a higher energy person.

Thank you so much!

Thank you for your kind words and for reading! I appreciate it.

Right? It doesn’t have to be. Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to read and comment! I appreciate you!

I don’t think this is asking for too much.

Let’s Stop Breaking Our Own Hearts & Learn to Love Ourselves Better

I would like to contribute as a writer please. Thank you!

I’m a romance novelist.

10 Unexpected Benefits to Dating a Capricorn

Happy September! Check out fall news, funny memes, and new reads!

The Weapons We Wield

My hands are hurting from clapping so hard! Thank you for sharing this.

Absolutely lovely!

Such a fun read! Thank you for writing it.

Loved this! Made me laugh, and I can relate! Great read!!!

25 Shots of Truth for the Love Drunk

Mood: Needy AF & Not Even Sorry About It

Die Mad About It

I love this so much! It’s such a beautiful perspective.

Honestly, married or single, women need a separate savings account — especially if their partner is…

Five Reasons You Need a Secret Food Tour in Your Life

Love Your Kids or Hate Your Ex

5 Epic Reasons to Source a Partner for Cuddle Season

Tempted with a Kiss

Connecting with nature is essential for my bad days.

Love Me. Also, Leave Me Alone.

A Get-Rich-Quick Scheme that’s Legit

Romance for the Modern World

Why is Breaking the Stigma the #1 Priority in Mental Health?

Jesus Don’t Like Ugly

I’m working on this, too, and posted something along similar lines today.

I love this so much! Your story and mine are so similar. Here’s to living our best lives!

Gaslighting is an older term that’s gained recent popularity.

Cultivating Peace in Dysfunction

Undone.

Loving Our Mistakes — or Learning

Tomorrow’s Dreams Begin Now

My own journey came from the same pattern of poor choices.

The Grace in Learning the Hard Way

Shameless Self-Promotion

To Every Soul Who’s Loving Life

Promises Given Carelessly Break the Same

Binding.

I worked with kids in the community as a therapist — several years ago.

Left on Main is here!

Quenching Our Thirst on a Shallow Kind of Love

The Danger of Looking Under Stones

Where Writers Hide the Bodies

Stopping the Self-Saboteur

Filling the Emptiness with Double-Stuffed Oreos

A Non-Traditional Approach to Bossing Up

Gone.

Aging with Grit Over Grace

How to Conjure a Connection

Restoring the Balance: Welcoming the Autumn Equinox

Wit’s End Parenting: A Diary

Are Snapchat Filters Killing Our Self-Esteem?

Right? Writing isn’t a science.

Lol. Great response! Maybe it’s not you.

Write Great Shit, Get Lucky Maybe

Sweet Nothing.

Almost Good Enough isn’t Enough

A New Take on Practical Magic

Too Much & Not Enough at the Same Time

Are You Running Toward Love — Or Away From It?

Do You Want a Partner or a Project?

I love this so much!

I love this so much!

I enjoyed this so much! I love the Peanuts. I named my son Linus. :)

On Falling in Love for a Season

I Love How You See Me

READ ME. (Please & Thank You)

Haha! I’m so happy you enjoyed it!

Relatable, isn’t it? I wish you meeting snacks and lots of patience!

I’m really happy! This has been the best year. Thank you for cheering me on!

Thank you! 😊

Thank you for reading!

Same! I’m so ready for nice cool, brisk days!

What a beautiful reminder! Thank you for sharing that.

I’m so glad it was helpful to you. Thank you for reading!

Letting Go, Not Losing

Drop Everything & Jump in Puddles

Thank you for the mention! Great tips for growing confidence!

I’ll be in Dublin the first couple of days. 😊 The 19th & 20th. Then I’m Belfast-bound.

How I’m Flying to Ireland for $46

One Pumpkin Spice Latte Doesn’t Make You a Basic Bitch

https://www.stitchfix.com/invite/prppghwhmv?sod=a&som=c

I have a referral code for Stitch Fix if you need one. It gives you $25 off to try it.

I’m in love with subscription boxes in general because I love having a self-care surprise come in…

Are You Celebrated or Tolerated?

Hello, September! Left on Main is out this month!!!

READ ME (Please & Thank You)

Relationships as Immersive Experience

The Giant Time Suck of Meetings

What Every Reader Wants You to Know

I don’t know that I agree with that.

I’m glad I could be the reminder. Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

She’s spectacular! Enjoy!

She’s the best! Enjoy!

What a beautiful comment!

I’ve made this mistake and, hopefully, learned from it. Thank you for reading!

I’m so glad that you have the experience of a relationship where you can openly communicate what…

Thank you!

Thank you!

In an equal society, men wouldn’t hold all the cards.

I do think it lets you know who is able and willing to openly talk about sex.

Thank you!

Those questions come up in online dating, too, but I feel like the results sometimes skew matches…

Thank you!

I’m so glad this gave you hope!

Thank you for reading and for your insightful comment!

Absolutely!

Thank you!

If we’re creating original content, copyright law shouldn’t keep us from enjoying and supporting…

Being assertive is also addressing and dismantling the systems of oppression that create a need for…

Not approaching someone you’re interested in is not the same thing as respecting someone’s space…

He is happiness!

That’s such a good one!

Exactly! And developing a healthy sense of self will more than likely attract the kind of partners…

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading!

Absolutely!

Thank you!

*Thank

Thank you for your insightful comment!

Thank you for putting that so eloquently.

I actually quite enjoy the work of Kris Gage.

I think non-attachment, practiced correctly, is the same as being securely attached in the sense…

Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

Thank you!

Yes, exactly.

Yes, exactly! Thank you for reading!

I agree. Any relationship should be a value add to the happiness we already have.

It’s toxic when at least one participant has issues that they are not acknowledging and working on.

It’s men and women cutting and running, believe me.

Agreed. We can be so busy that we don’t always make the time.

I’m glad you liked it.

Thank you!

It’s an interesting way to evaluate how our choices.

Agreed. But when your voice is no longer heard, it’s time to get up and leave the table. For good.

Thank you!

I can relate.

Returning to the “You” You Used to Be

Parallel Lives & The Choices We Make

Disarming Love

This resonated strongly with me.

I loved and related to this!

Open Letter to the World-Changers

Morning Coffee Meditations

The Greatest Predictor of Relationship Happiness

Modeling Friendship Goals on Drunk Girls in Bathrooms

Between Love & a Lifetime

Life, According to You

I Tell You All The Time

Is Non-Attachment the New Gluten-Free of Relationships?

Magic Exists: 7 Rituals to Access It

I’m Sorry for Your Loss

We Can Work It Out

Cinematic Romance

Titus Andromedon on Life

It’s Probably Nothing, But…

Love & What We Fear More Than Loss

How to Be Lucky in Love

11 Ways to Support Other Writers

Six Ways to Date Against Type

Does Modern Dating Require a Sexual Resume?

Summer-Lovin’: Sun-Kissed & Sexy

Having Our Privilege Checked is Supposed to Be Uncomfortable

August Newsletter & Podcast Debut

How to Love Without Breaking Ourselves — or Each Other

7 Reasons Lizzo is a National Treasure

Nothing Out of Obligation

I appreciate your perspective.

I would, too. Thank you for reading!

So true! We think it’s safer than any other relationship, but it’s not.

Isn’t that the truth?? You are most welcome. Thank you for reading!

Thank you for saying so, but I’m happy to be a writer these days.

I hope that you do find your voice together.

With that being said, would leaving be worse than your silences or his selfishness?

Agreed. It isn’t easy, but that’s the whole point.

Yes, this is it exactly. I love how you put it. Thank you for reading!

You put that beautifully! Thank you for reading.

You’re Not Okay (& That’s Okay)

Happiness Isn’t My Factory Setting

Love Doesn’t Offer Travel Insurance

Painfully Distracted

Love is the Name

On Love & Insanity

The Upside of Over-Thinking

Eulogies Inside Us

When You Read the Signs Correctly

Plotting and Planning Life & Love

I May F*ck this Up; I’m Trying Not To

Intensive Care

If Marie Kondo Gave Relationship Advice

Are You Worthy of Epic Love?

Dreams Don’t Happen Someday

Why Everyone Needs a Happy Place

The Trouble Loving Inanimate Objects

Collateral Damage: On Love and War

This isn’t about one man, I haven’t lost hope, I’m grateful for the lessons learned, and loving…

Thank You for Leaving

It likely doesn’t make a good news story because the same kindness may ne extended to humans they…

Exactly! Thank you for reading.

Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

So true!

And thank you for reading!

It’s too common, and it interferes with natural development.

Agreed. I remember what it was to be a child.

I don’t really feel less energetic than I did in my 20s, but I do think that parenting is a…

Thank you for reading!

I’m also outside of Atlanta and tired of this heat!

I’m often more emotional when tired, and this heat can be exhausting by itself.

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading.

I’m so glad! Thank you for reading.

The second I realized I didn’t want to write about it was the moment I knew I had to.

Thanks for reading and for the lovely compliment to my work!

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading.

Thank you for reading! ❤❤❤

Thank you!

Lol. Sleeping alone can be fantastic!

Thank you!

Agreed.

It’s such a common way of being- the destructive silence- that we often don’t realize how harmful…

Thank you for reading and for your insightful comment!

It’s a tough experience!

It might be time to get outside help. Therapy can be a great resource!

Thank you for reading!

Exactly! Thank you for reading!

I certainly did. Thank you for reading!

If you can’t speak up in a relationship, it’s time to get out of it

Thank you for reading!

You’re most welcome! I’m glad this offered a new perspective.

Thank you for reading!

You can, but it doesn’t seem ideal

It’s a common story. People shut down rather than seek help.

It does say that, but the act of silence doesn’t fix anything.

Navigate Loneliness; Don’t Drown in It

Trusting You to Love Me Back

You & Your Beautiful Resilience

F*ck Beach Body Goals; I’m Out

Growing Pains of an Authentic Life

Listening to the Rain with You

Children Are Tiny Humans, Not Little Adults

Your Future is Not a Dystopian Novel

How to Upload a Soul Connection

Clocks stop. Breaths hold. Life won’t wait. Be bold.

The Silent Killer of Relationships

Love and Self-Loathing

A Life Lived on Purpose Requires Risk

Speak Your Truth. It Matters.

Say A Prayer for Love

Between You & Relationship Goals

From Toxicity to Healthy Love: A Look at Relationship Wellness

I’m That Bitch

This is beautiful and relatable. ❤

The Past & Future Play Tug-of-War

Just Don’t: How to Take the Crazy Out of Dating

I love this perspective!

This is such an important lesson to learn!

These are fantastic tips! Thank you for sharing them.

I Don’t Need a Magic 8 Ball, Only This

Letters I Won’t Send — & You Wouldn’t Read Anyway

The Power of One (Isn’t Less Than)

Your Strong Friend Gets Tired

Thank you so much! And thank you for reading!

I wish more people would realize the power in it. It’s life changing. Thank you for reading!

Yes, exactly! Thank you for reading!

Thank you! Thanks for reading!

That’s very kind. Thank you for reading and for sharing your perspective!

Thank you for reading and for your kind words! It’s appreciated!

Thank you for reading! I’m so sorry for your loss!

It takes a lot of time, I’ve found.

Thank you for reading! It’s definitely not easy, and you’re right that it becomes self-sabotaging.

Thank you!

It is, as long as you don’t lose your own identity in the process — or ask them to give up theirs.

Thank you!

Agreed — — total yuck factor!

I bet that is invaluable. It certainly can help with learning.

They’re not our problem anymore. LOL. That’s the bonus!

It’s shocking every time, even though it happens often.

It was EXTREME! lol

Lol. I think I’ll skip that. Sounds fascinating!

If we become more self-aware, we get better at changing how we respond to whatever life throws at…

Exactly! Thanks for reading and for your insightful comment.

That last part- 100%!!!! Thanks for reading!

Thank you for your kind words. I agree that the level of self-awareness is what matters most.

It really is. Thank you for reading!

Exactly!

Right? Lol. It took me a minute.

Thank you!!

Right? Agreed 100%!

It can be both, depending.

Thank you!

Love Me For Me — Or Not At All

Hit First, Ask Questions Later: How Triggers Can Lead to Self-Sabotage

We Think We Need to Be Fearless (We Don’t)

It’s Not Me. It’s You.

Take My Identity; I Wasn’t Using It: On Relationship Identity Theft

How I Have Loved You, How I Always Will

Love ’Em & Leave ’Em: On Letting Go

Marry Yourself & Be Happy

If You’re Never the Problem (You are Definitely the Problem)

Mornings in Love: A Tourist’s Guide

Drunk Texts to Senators

Too Tired to Punch Today in the Face? There’s Another Way

Over-Dreaming & Over-Thinking

Songs for the Road

I’ll Show You Mine If You’ll Show Me Yours

When Friendship Meets Adulthood

Love & Anesthesia

Slut-Shaming & Other Sh*t to Quit if You Believe in Equality

That Time I Got Bitch Slapped by The Universe & Was Grateful for It

Uncover Me

Is Post Traumatic Relationship Stress a Real Thing?

The One Who Got Away — and Other Myths

No Approval Needed: Setting Boundaries, Not Giving Explanations

Etiquette is important.

It helps if you read an article before responding to it. Try again.

The Father, The Sperm Donor, & the Glorified Uncle

The Truth about Truth from Someone Who Can’t Be Trusted to Tell It

A Promise to Me in the Absence of You

I’m Only Sorry

Stop Dating Your Unresolved Issues

Two to Tango: Confronting Our Shadow Selves in Relationships

Medium Staff also has Community Standards. Your reply is inappropriate.

These are personal essays, not therapeutic advice. Stay in your lane.

She is my friend.

I could have highlighted the whole damn thing.

Your contribution isn’t worthless.

Thank you for reading! I appreciate your insightful comment.

Old buildings deteriorate.

If you’ve never found a piece of art to be inspirational, perhaps you’ve never encountered the…

My focus here was not on what THEY, the billionaires, can do but on what we can empower ourselves…

I agree that art and history are important, and I hate that the focus shifted into such a divisive…

Thank you for reading!

I don’t know about an inside job, but I do know that we all have a responsibility to do what good…

You are most welcome. Thank you for reading and for your lovely comment!

Right?

Exactly! It can be easier to stay in denial when we think everyone else supports our bad…

It sounds like it wasn’t a healthy friendship if there wasn’t room for truth.

Thank you for reading!

That’s all you can do.

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading.

Thank you for reading!

You are most welcome!

Thank you! I appreciate your support.

I’ve been there.

Thank you!

I agree. Thank you for reading!

That’s a great perspective! Thank you for reading.

You are most welcome. Thanks for reading!

Congratulations on 48 years in a happy marriage! :) And thank you for reading.

Thank you for reading! :)

Absolutely!

Thank you for reading! I highly recommend axe throwing. It’s so much fun!

Healthy boundaries act as selective shielding, but we’ve got to use them.

Thank you!

I love that quote! That’s wonderful!

It’s always humorous to me how some people will insert their entire foot in their mouth only to…

OMG still laughing at that last question! You win the Internet. lol

A healthy relationship involves two flawed humans who can accept and love each other.

You are most welcome!

Right? No, thank you!

I would have had to make my mouth do more than gape in shock at the long list of confessions that…

It did not go in the way he expected. Turns out, I’m not good Stepford wife material. LOL

Seeking the help of a counselor or life coach might help you find a way to reinvigorate your dreams…

Thank you for reading! :)

I hope you can manage to flip the script on them! Thank you for the well wishes.

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading!

Thank you! I appreciate your support so much! :)

I stayed in relationships longer than I should have making excuses.

Thank you!

Agreed! It’s great that you recognized how important it is because many people fail to realize it’s…

So glad you got your sleep! It’s a precious gift for sure.

True. Story. lol

You are most welcome! I hope it’s helpful!

Sometimes I use my own work to remind me. lol

It WAS the story of your life. :) Time to change that story!

You are most welcome!

Thanks for your insightful comment and for reading!

You are most welcome!

I agree that they don’t automatically make a relationship appear, but they certainly make a healthy…

Thank you!

Not yet. There’s still time to stop it.

Her rapist lived in Kentucky, and she lived in Tennessee.

Thank you for reading!

It’s not all-inclusive, but these are a few of the signs. Thank you for reading!

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading!

Thank you for your insightful perspective!

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading!

You are most welcome! I’m so glad that you stay true to yourself.

That’s adorable!!! Thank you for reading!

You are most welcome!

Thank you for reading!

My Life on the Tight Rope

Be With Someone Who Makes You (Laugh Until You) Cry

How to Stop Tripping & Falling in Order to Rise in Love

37 Affirmations to Live Your Best Life

Mermaid Tales

Signs & Symbols: Identifying Healthy Relationships, Not Just Red Flags

Hashtags, Handmaidens, and Georgia on My Mind

Be Mascara-on-a-Bad-Day Brave

I’m Not Like Other Girls

Exceptions vs. Accept-ions

The Myth of Tainted Self-Love

I try! I stay perpetually behind, but I make time to read comments and respond to all but obvious…

On the Common Denominator in Your Failed Relationships (It’s Not You)

How to Deal with an Anxiety Ninja

A Curated Guide to Mother’s Day

Prayer for the Non-Religious

Let Her Sleep: An Honest Gift-Guide

A Letter to My Children

Perfect Parenting: A Guide

The First Red Flag is Always This

A Message to Life-Long Overachievers

How to Flip the Script on Nightmares

This World is Not For You

What To Do When Your Life is Hell

How to Find Happiness When We Only See Struggle

Crafting the Perfect Partner

Sisters, Secrets, and Aquanet

Revolutionizing Relationships with Vulnerability

14 Lessons Learned From My Not-So-Boring Life

Making Lemons from Lemonade — Wait. What???

Every word of this--- yes!

Yes to all of this!

That is the loveliest tribute! Wishing you so much healing in this difficult time.

Hello! I’ve submitted at least 3 times and have never received any response.

The Truth About Your Trust Issues

Everywhere is Better with You

Absence Made Your Heart Forget Me

We Forget We Are Sacred

I tend to agree with you there.

Five days might be long for a news cycle, but thankfully, I don’t write the news.

I’ve been the expert, too. No more.

This is it exactly.

Real friends level with us, even when the truth hurts.

Absolutely! It’s not an ambiguous difference.

Thank you! Here’s to authenticity!!!

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading and for your lovely and insightful comment!

Thank you very much. That’s such a wonderful compliment!

I’m so happy it resonated with you. Thank you for reading!

Thank you so much! That’s very kind. I appreciate your support.

I agree. I’m glad you found that love for yourself.

That’s such a nice compliment. Thank you!

I love your comment, but I would say that this isn’t codependency.

Thank you!

It’s definitely worth it. I’m glad I made that choice.

Thank you, and thanks for reading.

You are most welcome, Zach!

You are most welcome. Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

I am so glad you’ve found the life you need, surrounded by a supportive community.

I am, too.

Thank you. What a lovely comment!

Thank you!

It can be. I hope you get some rest!

I always feel like I struggle with titles, so that is just the nicest compliment!

True story. LOL

You are most welcome! I’m glad they’re helping. Rest and trust the process.

It does simplify things and helps relationships develop more organically.

Yet sometimes these “friends” never meet, which is why I referenced the natural progression of…

Thank you for reading!

The half-truth part is what often sinks this situation.

This used to happen with pen friends and relationships that developed through letters.

I don’t, but I’ll keep an eye out. LOL Thank you for reading!

I love my online friendships and value them.

Boundaries are absolutely essential!

I’m so glad that he realized that.

Thank you! :)

Absolutely agreeing with you on all points. Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you so much!

Thank you. :)

You are most welcome. Thank you for reading!

You are most welcome!

You are most welcome. Thank you for reading, and I’m so glad it resonated with you!

Thank you for reading! I agree that it relates outside of romantic relationships.

Thank you!

Thank you! That is the loveliest of compliments!

I agree completely.

You are most welcome! I appreciate you reading my work!

You are most welcome. Thank you for reading!

I didn’t address pre-destination.

I think we can have more than one over a lifetime, but I think we may have many more un-soulmates…

That’s what is wonderful about finding the right relationship: it often is accompanied by so much…

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading.

Thank you!

Thank you for reading!

I agree that love should flow organically.

Thank you so much for reading about it! And thank you for your beautiful comment. :)

You are most welcome!

You have a point. lol Thanks for reading!

Right??? Agreed 100%

I’m glad it resonated with you so strongly.

It isn’t, but I’m so glad you can still have the joy of walking. Walking has its merits, too.

Running is a great outlet. I find that I process things while I run.

Maybe not stronger.

I love that perspective, and I’m so happy you were able to raise healthy, happy children.

Yes! It’s not about control at all.

They aren’t fashionable notions.

Exactly! They have emotions the same as we do and should have the freedom to express them without…

It’s the choice that’s not a choice really. At least, the alternative is unthinkable.

You are most welcome! Lending my strength to you now. You’ve got this!

Best of luck!

I’m glad I did it because for a moment I wasn’t sure I was going to be able to do it at all.

Resilience is important in love and life. I always find my heart is stronger than I know.

I’m so glad you keep believing. Lovely comment!

You’re most welcome! Thank you for reading!

I’m going to make him read your response later.

It’s a pattern I’ve noted over the years.

Thank you for reading!

Yes!!! You get it!

Thank you!

I’m with you on the beard trend.

Thank you!

Thank you!

Thank you!

It helps to keep that perspective. Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

Thank you for reading!

I agree. It’s not easy, but it’s important that we keep trying.

Congratulations on 35 years together!

I could have used it many times.

I see your point, but you’re assuming there’s a choice between the churches in Louisiana and Notre…

I think art connects us, and art is never “just” art.

I agree. I think it gives us an opportunity to look at what we can be doing rather than looking at…

Thank you for reading and for recognizing the complexity of the issue.

Thank you!

I think we can help more as individuals, too, and passing the buck to billionaires is an easy way…

Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

I wrote this 5 days after the cathedral caught fire.

I haven’t done any reading or research about why the Catholic church isn’t helping.

Thank you.

I agree.

What Your Friends Want to Say to You About Your “Misunderstood” Partner

We should all speak up for each other in this way. Well done!

I do regular beauty treatments like face masks while relaxing in a hot bath with a book.

Here’s To the Over-Thinkers

Self-Care for Soft Hearts

How Facing My Fears Made Me a Better Writer

I love this! Color does help give us confidence. Now I want to try that lipstick color.

Drawn Lines: Love is Not Enough

Love & Knowing Better

Saving Notre Dame or Feeding the World: It’s Not a Choice

Dancing for Peace

On Being Their Mother

How Beards Pander to a Double Standard

Between Bootstraps & Bicycles Built for Two

Settle an Argument for Me

Strong but Fragile

How to Believe in Love Again

Somewhere Between FOMO & YOLO

When Staying Together is Staying Committed to a Mistake

Surviving Marriage, Saving Me

Your Son Doesn’t Need to Man Up

Running for My Life

A Surefire Way to Break Our Own Hearts

The Problem with Other People

The Moment I Knew I Was a Writer

Perfectly Put Together, Falling Apart

Changing the World for Our Girls

Releasing Our Un-Soul Mates

Throw Out Your Life Plan and Live

Love is a 4-Letter Word

My Words are Whiskey

Flipping the Script on Mental Health

The Unfuckwithable Woman Gets Tired

Don’t Fall in Love with Strangers on the Internet

Equal rights mean everyone will have an equitable distribution of rights, which means that men…

Why Do We Keep Resisting a Rest

Love Laid Bare

Measuring Up

I’m not at all bitter, so you may be projecting here.

Unfortunately, I’ve had partners who took me asking them to help in the house as “mothering” them…

lol

Agreed.

Personal growth may develop over time, and no one called anyone else “stupid”.

That’s not a feminist thing. That’s not feminism at all.

Right? It’s unfortunate that too few people dating are dealing with their baggage.

I’ve been there! I love your plan. Do that. The rest will come when it’s time.

Thank you!

Thank you!

I love that idea!

Thank you for your insightful comment!

I’m so glad.

sounds like you got out. Good for you!!! You deserve better.

Communication is an ongoing learning experience for most of us- in the bedroom and out.

Exactly.

I, also, am always prepared, but men should also consider this and not expect us to be the only…

Agreed. Thank you for reading!

Looking at sex as a shared experience rather than taking what we want from someone else can only…

I think it would be easy enough if they just paid attention during normal sexual encounters to…

I think women don’t understand their own pleasure and haven’t been taught to speak up for…

Faking any part of a relationship, including sex, is a definite turnoff. Thanks for reading!

Thank you for reading it. I’m glad it resonated so strongly with you!

Thank you so much!

Thank you!

It is, and I wish I’d paid attention to that much earlier in my life.

Thank you! :)

It can, but if more people were willing to take that risk, we would see that we’re really not alone…

You are most welcome. Thank you for reading! What’s the link to yours?

I definitely think there’s a spectrum.

Only it’s not at all.

I agree completely.

Thank you. I certainly will!

You are most welcome! I’m so glad it resonated with you.

We are not half-people needing completion.

Thank you so much!

I’m so glad it resonated with you.

I think it’s important that we’re full humans regardless of relationship status.

My first thought is always: who cheated?

Agreed. We can never outrun our own problems.

Right? LOL I know women who do this, too, but why does anyone think this is a good idea?

I lean toward ignoring now in most cases. Or reporting, depending.

I love the expression “thumb thugs”! Loved your entire comment. Thanks for reading!

Mansplaining encapsulates a widespread experience of women.

Nor is it our job to do the emotional labor for them. Good for you!

Thank you for reading!

What do you think “stand with us” means?

You are most welcome! Thanks so much for reading.

Thank you for reading and for your thoughtful response!

I’m so glad it was what you needed. Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

It’s alright to disagree.

All we have is our own individual experiences and the meaning we create from them.

Thank you, and thank you so much for reading!

You are most welcome!

Exactly. It does make you rethink everything.

Thank you for reading!

I also struggle with letting go, but I find that it’s a practice.

I think we too often tend toward extremes when more than one thing can be true at the same time.

I wish you so much kindness and love for yourself through the process.

Thank you so much for reading! I’ve found that perspective is everything.

Thank you for reading it and for your lovely comment! Nice to see you back here.

Thank you for reading!

Thank you so much! :) I’m so glad you enjoyed it.

You are most welcome! Thank you so much for reading!

Thank you!

Yes, of course.

Thank you!

Exactly. We learn and grow and heal. And we’re so much the better for it.

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading.

Thank you!

It’s tough, but I’m definitely learning how to change those patterns.

Our own authenticity will naturally weed out wrong relationships much of the time.

This has been my experience.

It really is a wonderful perspective to have when there’s a long-distance challenge in the…

That’s true. Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

I’m grateful for the same thing.

Absolutely!

Exactly! Perspective is everything!

Thank you!

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading.

I’m so glad you came across it when it was needed. Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

Right? I think anything that requires our vulnerability takes work.

Thank you!

Thank you! I love Brene Brown! She’s one of my favorite teachers!

That’s a wonderful way to put it and exactly what it feels like.

Thank you! I am continuing to remind myself that there is strength in an intentional yes or no.

I recommend any Brene Brown book for both of you to read, perhaps together.

I’ve heard that definition, but I can say from my own experience that there were a lot of lessons…

Thanks! Bad timing is definitely one I hear a lot.

Being happy and single is a practice, I think.

The growth game, in my opinion, is the only want that leads us to healthy relationships.

You are most welcome!

It seems to me that too many relationships skip straight to sex without enjoying all of the other…

Lol. There will be more!

Thank you for reading!

Everyone Needs Therapy

Life on My Terms

The Universe Has a Sense of Humor

Personal Growth: The Only Dating Game That Matters

Your Soulmate Wasn’t the One Who Got Away

Buyer’s Remorse for Love

Taking Shots & Praising Jesus

The Next Time I Fall in Love

I Will Give You Silence & Your Space

Unraveling the Story of Us

A Garlic-Equivalent for the Energy Vampires in Your Life

A Road Map to the Relationship You Don’t Think Exists

Elephants Never Forget

What Happens When Your Fairy Tale Love Story Becomes a Cautionary Tale

How a Long-Distance Relationship Taught Me Abundance, Not Scarcity

A story you can get lost in is the best kind!

The Dark Side of a Beautiful Mind

Life After Us

Strong Enough to Leave, Strong Enough to Break

This Road On My Own

Loving Well but Not Wisely

I Bought Every Lie From Your Lips; I’m Still Paying for It

I Want to Say I Love You, But…

Thank you for sharing!

I Tried to Write a Different Ending for Us

Holding Space for Lovers Lost

Do More Than Believe Her: How to Be More Than an Ally to Women

To Clap Back or Not to Clap Back: On Handling Haters

Dumpster Fire Dating Strategies

The Plus Side When You Don’t Have a Plus-One

From Glass Slippers to Glass Ceilings

Love & Illusion

Your Secret Misogyny

I Cannot Afford to Lose Myself in Love

We’ll Slow Time, Together, You & I

I Have Loved Myself Too Little… And You Too Well

When Forever Falls Apart

I did enjoy it. Thank you for sharing it with me!

Thank you!

Yes! It’s not very helpful for the relationship.

Absolutely!

Agreed, and you put that beautifully.

You are most welcome!

Thank you very much!

Thank you!

Thank you! I’m looking forward to that as well!

Absolutely!

You’re most welcome!

I think we can also just be attracted to the reality and stay for that.

Right?? Being hopeful is lovely until it becomes foolish.

It took me a while to understand that love is just a feeling like any other.

You are most welcome! Thank you for reading!

You are most welcome!!!

Thank you for reading!

It’s better to be loved for who we are than who we might be.

It takes time, but I’m so glad you got there. It’s a truly transformative perspective!

Focus on potential should be replaced with genuine connection and mindful attention.

Thank you for reading, and I’m glad it came to you when you needed it.

What often happens is that their partners aren’t even interested in living up to the potential…

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

I see what you’re saying, but kids don’t need two incompatible adults who aren’t well-suited to be…

Thank you for reading!

Agreed! I think it’s all about personal growth and finding partners who are at the same level of…

It helps to remember that they probably weren’t all bad, and we might not be getting the full story.

Thank you for reading!

You’ll get there because you see it.

It sounds as if you’re in great pain.

Thank you!

Thank you for reading!

I’ve had to learn to drop my expectations along with my assumptions.

Wow. This comment is quite insightful.

Agreed!

Sounds like you missed out on a real prize with that one. LOL

I’m so glad that it helped you feel less alone.

I’m so glad you’re choosing new, mindful behaviors rather than defaulting to the old ones.

No one else is going to protect our space for us.

Thank you for reading!

It isn’t an easy journey to free ourselves from our attachments, codependency, or learned…

Thanks, love! :)

I like a good buffet. ;)

Thank you! I appreciate that. :)

Thank you so much! :)

Agreed 100%! Thanks for reading!

Being alone and independent doesn’t necessarily equate to being selfish.

I’m so glad that you are finding your own truth and happiness!

It’s not a competition.

Thank you!

Poor us, right? LOL. If only they knew how happy we were… I chose to be amused. Let them eat cake!

Thank you so much for reading! My mouse still squeaks sometimes, but mostly I’m roaring truth. :)

It isn’t an easy transition, but it feels so much better than being a doormat for the world.

I find the older I get the more I’m sinking into this beautiful authenticity.

Thank you!

Thank you!

Thank you for reading!

BDSM is a fairly prevalent sexual lifestyle.

I agree, but what you don’t realize is that your openness to feedback is the exception, not the…

Once again, you are defining sex with men and their erection, orgasm, and pleasure as the main…

Thank you! And thank you for reading! Communication is absolutely essential!

Agreed. OMGYes is an excellent resource for women and one I would recommend from my experience with…

I agree all genders can do better.

Absolutely!

That’s how I’m looking at it.

Right???

Right? Same here. I was just so good at it. Lol

Thank you, and thank you for reading!

I’m so glad. Thank you for reading!!

Thank you!

Thank you!

Thank you.

You’re most welcome! Thank you for reading. :) It’s never too late for loving and living well.

Thank you!

Life on Repeat

If This Thing Between Us Breaks…

The Origin of Doubt (F*ck It; I’m Fabulous)

Keep Your Promises Away From Me

Caught Between Love and Breaking

I related so much to this, and funnily enough, I’m headed to NYC tomorrow.

Hot Mess Mom

A Simple Guide to Superior Sex

Unapologetically Me

Your Lonely is My Free

On Waffles & Relationships

How to Find Balance (When We’ve Never Had Boundaries)

How to Avoid Soul-Crushing Rejection

Yes! You put that beautifully!

How to Say Goodbye

To the Woman After Me: You’re Welcome

Loved Served Sweet, Southern-Style

The Greatest Art Heist You’ve Never Heard Of

Beautifully written!

Breaking Up with Potential

It must have been a glitch. I finally got through!

A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

After putting on a bracelet by myself, I was fairly confident that I could now audition for Cirque…

Waking from Dreams of You

Survival is Not an Option

Hello! I’d love to submit to write for Publishous, but I’m having issues with the Get Published tab.

Pushed off the Pedestal

Absolutely every word of this!

Some Things are Worth the Wait

Dating is Broken Because We Are

Thank you for the lovely compliment!

Isn’t it funny how it works out that way?

Thank you for reading!

We have to do what is best for ourselves, and sometimes that’s just disconnecting from toxic…

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Same! I am not urgent care for broken boys anymore. Glad you also retired.

Yeah, for real.

Yes! Have you seen the Derrick Jaxn video about Checking Your Temperature?

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

I agree. The relationship should be defined by whatever terms the couple mutually agrees upon.

This can apply inside and outside of marriage, as not everyone chooses to get married.

Sometimes, the red flags aren’t huge ones and might not even be red flags to us.

The wake-up call needs to come from themselves, not from me, and I don’t need tone policing.

I look forward to reading it!

Dating can be incredibly frustrating, right?

Thank you for reading!

I appreciate your support!

Absolutely! Her outlook was beautiful. Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you so much for reading and for your support!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

You are most welcome! I’m so glad it was what you needed.

Thank you for your beautiful comment, and that song is lovely!

Thank you!

Thank you for reading! I wish you hope and healing!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading!

Thank you for reading. I’m glad it was what you needed. It is definitely difficult but important.

You’re most welcome. I’m so glad it resonated with you. I wish you healing!

Thank you for reading and for your lovely comment!

Thank you! Thank you for reading! :)

Thank you!

Thank you so much, and thank you for reading!

Thank you so much! I’m so glad it resonated!

Thank you for reading! I’m so glad it’s what you needed!

Thank you so much for reading and for your beautiful response!

You are most welcome. Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

You are most welcome. Thank you for reading!

I wish you healing and freedom! Thank you for reading!

Thank you!

You are most welcome! Deep South Georgia, here. :)

:) Thanks for reading!

You know I relate with Tennessee. :)

Thank you!

Absolutely!

Thank you for reading and for your insightful response!

I absolutely agree.

It is hard, but the way out is through. I hope that will give you hope rather than discourage you.

Thank you so much for that! I appreciate your support!

Thank you so much for reading!

Such a beautiful response! Thank you for that!

You are most welcome! I’m so glad it was what you needed.

Thank you!

I loved every single word of this.

Definitely going to read that!!!

Agreed!

Thank you for reading! :) Straight up for sure!!

It’s really a process, and I think a lot of times we trip ourselves up with assumptions and…

Thank you!

I decided to stop actively dating and just allow things to unfold.

You’re most welcome! Thanks for reading, and I’m so glad it was what you needed.

You are most welcome!

You are most welcome!

Thank you for reading!

absolutely! It was the best time!

I don’t think men should be looking at giving gifts as an opportunity to get laid.

Thank you for reading!

I’m so glad! I found yours both beautiful and inspiring!

I’m so glad it was what you needed. Thank you for reading!

Thank you so much! I wish the same for you as well!

Thank you!!

Thank you for reading!

I love this list!

The Zombie Apocalypse is Upon Us

Between Us: On Love & Distance

When Hope is Hidden Inside Rejection

I didn’t mind. I was happy to read yours. 💖

That was incredibly lovely! I did this yesterday but not to such powerful effect. Wonderful!

Love that Lights the Way

I love this list! And so many of the same things. Thanks for the tag. I’ll get to work!

Thanks for sharing this and for promoting other writers!

Un-Valentine, Won’t You Be Mine?

When Epic Love Arrives

Love Yourself. Chase No One.

How Throwing an Ax Can Unleash Your Inner Warrior

Find Yourself by Losing Your Way

Black Heart

Own Your Power, Change the World

I did the same thing.

New Year, Same Me, Get Used to It

Talking to Your Ex: A Necessary Mistake?

Band-Aids for Bruises

When Love Survives the Relationship

Why We Keep Filling Up on the Same Trauma- & How to Say ENOUGH

10 Life Hacks for Your Best Life

Bite-Sized Thoughts for Mornings

Don’t Mess with Southern Women: They Will Bless Your Heart

Thank you for reading! I’m so glad it was what you needed!

I’m so glad it resonated with you!

I hope we can both maintain that balance!

I’m so glad it was helpful.

She Will Never Be Me

The Konmari Method, Joy, and Me

When Coffee is More Than Just Coffee

Is It Dark, Or Are Your Eyes Closed?

Are You Dating Distracted?

Love & the Price of Admission

Forever

Love Yourself, Not Your Drama

Rooted & Rising

Love from a Safe Distance

Check Your Envy, Trust Your Struggle

You clearly misunderstood the type of ghosting this article is about.

The Week I Needed to Lean

I want to be a writer!

The Secret Struggle of the Storyteller

You Deleted Me From Your Life. I Couldn’t Write You Out of Mine.

This Year, I’m Finding My True North

Not all people who are celibate refer to themselves as “incels”.

You should probably read up on feminism.

All of this!

Things I Won’t Be Doing This Year