Whoever you are, wherever you are, I want you to know that I'm excited to meet you.

I've learned a lot about myself this past year. I was in a relationship for a little over three years, and in that time, I thought I knew who I was. Not only did I think I knew who I was, I thought I knew what I needed from another human being to be happy. Turns out, after three years, I didn't have it all figured out.

Love comes, and love goes, and it teaches you lessons along the way. My last relationship was incredible, and I'm sad that it had to end, but I could never be more thankful for what I learned about myself and what I need.

So, to the next person I give my heart away to, here're some things you need to know.

I am broken. But I don't need you to fix me. We all have our own set of issues and demons that were constantly battling. Just because I happen to be sad sometimes, doesn't mean I need you to magically swoop in and try to fix me. Being in a relationship doesn't magically fix anyone's issues, and it's important you understand that. Just because I'm sad sometimes, doesn't mean you don't make me happy either. In times like these, all I'll need from you is a hug and an open ear. All I ever need is someone to listen.

I cannot be smothered. Chances are if I've willingly given you my heart, I love you a whole bunch. But just because I love you, doesn't mean I want to spend every waking second of my life talking to you or being with you. Without the help of my friends and family, it's hard to say that I'd ever be the type of person that I am today. I am not willing to sacrifice, or damage, those relationships and friendships because I spend all of my time with you. I've lost friends because of a boy before, and I am not wiling to have that happen again. We both need to live separate lives, as well as our lives together.

I am sensitive. I am fragile. I cry a lot, over stupid little things. I've tried my hardest to "toughen up" but, in all honesty, I'm pretty sure I'll forever be this way. And that's OK with me. Just try your hardest not to make fun of me when I'm crying over stupid little things, like someone dying in a movie or a happy ending to a book. Just giggle under your breath and kiss me on my forehead. It's the best for both of us.

I have a huge heart. I often find myself putting everyone I know before me, under any type of circumstance. I'm the type of person who will give someone my meal, even if I'm starving. I was raised to be that way. I'm going to need you to remind me that it's OK to put myself first. I'm going to need you to tell me that I'm not selfish for doing so either.

I am scared. I am going to be scared to give my heart to you. I need you to understand that this has nothing to do with your ability to make me happy or to be my person. I am just scared, because the last time I gave my heart away, it didn't end the way I imagined it. No, I am not still caught up in my ex, but I am still hurt by the entire situation. I don't think any amount of time will ever make loving someone new easier. Just be patient with me, and know that I mean well.

I know I've only told you the basics, but in all honesty, I'm an open book. Reading me isn't that hard, and chances are, you're a total stud that can figure it out all on your own.

Thanks for taking my heart, and thanks for giving me yours.

P.S. If we ever make it long enough to the point where you want to spend the rest of your life with me, I wouldn't be opposed to a proposal with seventeen golden retriever puppies, just saying.