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Logging onto Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, photos of elaborate gifts or crazy vacations clog our newsfeed with the caption "relationship goals." We've all seen it, and we've probably all retweeted or shared a few. Today's relationships goals are based on two things: fiction and money. Wouldn't we all love to join our boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse on a getaway to Santorini, Greece, or a private island in the Caribbean? Sure. Wouldn't we love a chance to go skydiving together, receive a huge diamond necklace "just because," or give that special someone front-row tickets to their favorite band? Absolutely. But, frankly, that's not what a true relationship is like for the average couple. These relationship goals are unattainable and they create expectations for a relationship that can never be met. Celebrity couples or star athletes and their significant others incite the same reaction. Certainly, their relationships must be special. But why is our generation so obsessed with these extravagant dates, presents, and stories of romance?

To me, real relationship goals are those that can't be bought or sold. The goals I have for a relationship are simple and universal. I want someone who is kind. Someone who loves me unconditionally. Someone who cleans the house when I'm busy or sick, brings me my favorite flowers after a hard day, and gives the best hugs any day of the week. I don't need to have matching Mercedes convertibles or a Tiffany ring. I just need someone who loves me and makes me smile. Unfortunately, these simple things seem to be on the back burner in today's world. Everybody seems so obsessed with having the best, most Instagram-worthy relationship. When you get caught up in the material side of it, love gets lost along the way. If someone is pampering you or treating you to the best of the best, does it really matter if they're smart, joyful, or genuine? To a lot of girls (and guys!) today, it might not. This is what makes me sad about love in our world.

Cover Image Credit: Twitter

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A Letter To My Go-To Aunt

Happiness is having the best aunt in the world.

Madison Trout

Madison Trout Sep 21, 2016

23067

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I know I don't say it enough, so let me start off by saying thank you.

You'll never understand how incredibly blessed I am to have you in my life. You'll also never understand how special you are to me and how much I love you.

I can't thank you enough for countless days and nights at your house venting, and never being too busy when I need you. Thank you for the shopping days and always helping me find the best deals on the cutest clothes. For all the appointments I didn't want to go to by myself. Thank you for making two prom days and a graduation party days I could never forget. Thank you for being overprotective when it comes to the men in my life.

Most importantly, thank you for being my support system throughout the numerous highs and lows my life has brought me. Thank you for being honest even when it isn't what I want to hear. Thank you for always keeping my feet on the ground and keeping me sane when I feel like freaking out. Thank you for always supporting whatever dream I choose to chase that day. Thank you for being a second mom. Thank you for bringing me into your family and treating me like one of your own, for making me feel special because you do not have an obligation to spend time with me.

You've been my hero and role model from the time you came into my life. You don't know how to say no when family comes to you for help. You're understanding, kind, fun, full of life and you have the biggest heart. However, you're honest and strong and sometimes a little intimidating. No matter what will always have a special place in my heart.

There is no possible way to ever thank you for every thing you have done for me and will continue to do for me. Thank you for being you.

Cover Image Credit: Pixabay

Madison Trout

Madison Trout Sep 21, 2016

At DePauw University

7 Things To Remember When You're Sad About Being Single

I don't need a significant other, I have my significant self.

Jenasyn Baker

Jenasyn Baker May 22, 2019

1164

views

Let's stop the stigma around being single. Those who aren't in a relationship are not "weak," "missing out," "lonely," etc. We're doing just fine on our own, honey. There may be many plus sides of being in a relationship such as having a cuddle buddy, someone who, without a doubt, will always buy you food, or sharing your love for in each other in endless, cute ways. Buuuuttt... let's not forget these reasons why being single can be so amazing!