“

All of your friends have gone on dates and had their first kisses and lost their virginities. Some of them might even be engaged with houses and babies. Meanwhile, you’ve been sitting in your bedroom reading about romance in books and watching it in movies.

“

Facebook. She thought she knew me, I accepted her and went against my shy nature and started talking to her.

“

No one should have to feel like that because of who they are and how they live their life.

“

They don’t need you. They’ve learned to live without love. So if they choose to be with you, it’s because they’re serious about you. Because they believe you’re worth all the risks.

“

I love the person that I am and the woman that I’ve grown to be. I never want to feel like I n​eed someone. I just want to w​ant t​hem. This feeling helps me from forcing myself into something that doesn’t necessarily fit.

“

The good folks at Wikipedia define a late bloomer as someone whose “talents or capabilities are not visible to others until later than usual.” My definition? Someone who played with Barbies wayyyy after their “fun and cool” expiration date.

“

You’re not a late bloomer. Pairing off is not the only way to show growth. We always say love is brave, and it is. But choosing not to settle takes more courage. Choosing not to pair off for the sake of being in a couple is brave too.

“

Whether you sprouted boobs in college, didn’t drop your voice until 16, or lost your virginity in your 20s — you’re better for having done things behind schedule.