7 Things I’ll Never Apologize For

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1. My Taste In Music

My musical preferences range from Taylor Swift to The Cure to Big Sean. And no matter what artist comes out with an album, mixtape, or single, U Got It Bad by Usher will always be a great jam. Or sometimes, you just physically need belt out This Kiss by Faith Hill. #SorryNotSorry.

2. My Form Of Self Expression

Everyone needs an outlet, a way to let out all the pent up frustration and stress that life will undoubtedly hit you with every single damn day. When I just need to let it out, I write. And then I post my thoughts on the Internet. And I will never be sorry about it.

3. My Beliefs

I will never apologize for believing in God, or for calling myself a feminist. It’s just not going to happen.

4. My Emotions

For the most part, I try really hard to be rational and reasonable and keep a clear mind when I get upset about things. I try to put myself in other people’s shoes and look at situations with an outside perspective. But sometimes, I just get really upset. Or mad. Or frustrated. And I don’t feel like I should ever have to apologize for the way I feel if it’s truly how I feel—everyone is entitled to their opinions and their emotions. Don’t be embarrassed about your broken heart or the time you just couldn’t pull yourself out of bed for a week with no particular reason. You have every right to feel the way you do, even if you can’t explain why.

5. My Failures

I’m not sorry for the times I fell short or was a disappointment. Your failures and mistakes don’t define you—you aren’t the boy who dumped you, the school that rejected you, or the job you didn’t get. Take every day in stride; recognize your shortcomings and work to make them better. There is nothing to be sorry for if you can do that.

6. My Vulnerability

I wear my heart on my sleeve, and I just really can’t help it. We live in the “hookup era”—a culture of one night stands, fuck buddies instead of significant others. I will always be one of those wistful, hopeless romantic types. I used to repress it to prevent seeming clingy or crazy. I embrace it now, because I really really believe in true love. If that makes me “vulnerable” or prone to heartbreak and pain, so be it.

7. My Sexuality

I think this is a really important one, especially for women. I’ll just say this: embrace it, ladies.