You've probably heard this at some point, or read an article similar to it; something about a heartbroken, young girl (or even guy). Well, while there may be many articles out there about relationships and how they have affected a person, I'm not just going to tell my story, be bitter, and whine. I want to make the point that while breakups absolutely SUCK, everything happens for a reason.

In my life, I've never had a "real" relationship until now. I've had "boyfriends" in high school and had one my sophomore year of college. During this "relationship," I thought I had to live up to certain standards; being a blonde, southern belle in the top tier sorority (Not bashing those who are, that's just not me.) I thought I had to constantly become subservient, doing whatever he wanted, because apparently, according to him, "that's a woman's role." (Now, let me make it clear, HE DID NOT MENTALLY ABUSE ME. He did not control me or abuse me in any way, shape, or form. I just felt like I was not good enough, due to knowing about girls he had been with in the past.)

I thought this was a true relationship, but it wasn't (Especially the ones in high school, I was young and naive.) I wasn't "allowed" to have a problem and when I did, he didn't want to hear it. This made me feel like I lost my freedom, but at the same time, I didn't want to let him go. It made me so confused and hurt to think that someone who told me "I love you," would ultimately, make me choose between a better future for myself, or staying where he was and being miserable.

Not to mention, I've also had my "flings" with guys; you know, when you "talk" to someone for awhile and you're basically dating without the label, but then they move on with no explanation. Whether the label was there or not, you feel like you invest so much in someone you think will reciprocate, but end up just feeling used.

Now, you may just think I sound like I hate all men. That's not the point I'm trying to make. I want to state that, ladies and gentlemen, YOU DO NOT DESERVE TO FEEL LIKE YOU ARE NOT ENOUGH. You are enough. It's amazing how "enough" you are. I've learned the hard way that you're worth someone who doesn't see you as ordinary, but extraordinary. Don't settle, and waiting for that special someone who will commit to you is incredibly worthwhile.

Wait for someone who respects you, who encourages you to be your best, someone who is open-minded. Wait for someone who is not only kind to you, but kind to others. Be with someone who has the same intentions and goals, and wants to spend the rest of their life with you. Wait for someone you can laugh with, someone who can confide in. Someone who respects your beliefs, knows your hopes and dreams, all the way down to your quirks and your favorites.

As sappy and cheesy as this may sound, I want my readers to feel worthwhile, and not necessarily just in the dating world. Surround yourself with all around good, genuine people. There's someone out there for everyone, even coming from me, a so-called "hopeless romantic." After all, it's better to be happy alone than be miserable with someone else.