Marisa Donnelly

In this life, I hope we stop second guessing. When we see someone we have feelings for, we find the words—the imperfect, honest words—and let them spill out of our mouths. When we feel at home in someone’s arms, we share that with them, vulnerability so raw it hurts.

Even if you feel little or lost, know this—the universe isn’t done with you yet. You are only beginning.

Trust in God. Trust in the universe. Trust in your own sturdy legs and beating heart.

I’m learning that it’s okay to love what was, but infinitely better to appreciate and focus on what is.

Romantic love is not a measure of whether or not your life is full.

“I tried to steal her dog because we raised him together. I sneaked into the house and tried to grab him but she caught me.”

No matter how much you’re been broken, you still miss the people you love(d)—and that’s not wrong. True leaving and true healing take time.

Who you are is someone to be proud of. The way you stand is something to admire. Your faith and strength, your ability to speak when others are against you—those are powerful traits of a powerful girl.

‘Woman’ is not synonymous with weak.

I can’t hate you for leaving because life is too short to hold onto things and people that don’t fill our hearts with happiness and purpose.

Let go of all the pain that has been brought into your life, all the events that have shattered you, that have weakened you, that have shaped and changed you. Let them go.

Love is the moments between wake and sleep, cool body temperatures that spark flames when eyes open. Love is cloudless sky, full of hope and possibility.