Coming from a difficult upbringing doesn't mean you have to live how you were taught to exist. In fact, life has shown you how bad it can get; it is up to you to make your adult life better. It is not a simple thing, you are used to things going poorly for you and when you are growing up in a tough environment all that you know is bad. So, you become an adult, you leave the place that has caused you pain for all of your young life and you are ready to really begin your journey.

One day, you will meet someone that you trust enough with your heart. You may stay with them, but it may not be right for the both of you. Don't be discouraged by this. As a word of wisdom, I will tell you that "you will never find anyone to love if you lock everyone out of your heart." So, will your heart be broken? Maybe. Can you survive not being with someone that you think that you love?  Yes. Is it easy? No.

Still, find someone that you love and can communicate with about the most important things in your life. They will be around for when you are at your best and hug you at your worst; they will understand your quirks and sadness once they know more about you. And, if the wrong person is there, believe me, they will find the door sooner than later. But don't settle for less than a love that you deserve. Don't be so ready to hold someone that you hold someone that doesn't see you the same way that you see them.

There is no one great love of your life. No fireworks when you meet them. No falling or tripping because the two of you locked eyes. All great stuff for the movies and books, but in truth it's just like any other day. You may be at the mall, the grocery store,  really anywhere. Then you meet this person and you aren't sure what to say, because you both find one another attractive. But, classically, it is the guy that speaks up.  You go on one date, then another, you become more ready to see one another, and life just moves along.

And in all this time, with this person, you will forget how much life has hurt you. How many times that you just wanted to no longer be around. How life is all so horrible. No, you leave that behind you when you are with this person that makes you feel fulfilled, warm, and an equal. No, we cannot escape our past, nor should we ignore it. Embrace what you are and where you come from. For two reasons, one is that you know the bad already and you want to avoid the paths that lead there. And two, to be open with anyone you might be sharing some of your past with them.

Love who you love. Be who you want, and were meant, to be. Enjoy a more than ordinary life together!