I have been fairly open with my past relationships here. Often advocating awareness of those in emotionally abusive relationships. Though not every relationship I have had was bad, most were actually good, we just were not meant for each other. When I listened to Ariana Grande's newest song, "Thank You, Next", it reminded me that all relationships, the good and the bad, shape you into who you are today. Including the relationship, you have with yourself.
One taught me about pain, what love should not be like. I thought that was all that I deserved, but I soon learned that was not the case. He helped me to learn the signs of an abusive relationship so that I never had to go through it again.
One taught me about love. It taught me a lot about life and love and also that I am worth more than I thought. He helped to open me up and honestly, be myself today.
One taught me about what I want out of a relationship. He brought to the light that I enjoy more hands-off relationships. Being able to just enjoy each other's company.
One taught me to go for my dreams. To never give up, to keep reaching and doing what I love. He helped to push me down the path I am heading down today.
It was not until that that I learned to completely love myself, to understand what I really want in future relationships.
There is so much to learn from each relationship. Even if you feel like the relationship was the worst, you know what you do not want in the future. Never regret a decision in a person, just take what you learned at that moment. Use it to give yourself strength and allow yourself to continue to grow. Always remember, you deserve the best for you.