“I define
connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard,
and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they
derive sustenance and strength from the relationship”
–Dr. Brené Brown
Throughout
the last few years as well as a couple past relationships, I have begun to
define the qualities I look for in significant other, and one thing I have
continually kept close to my heart is the desire that I have to be with someone
who makes me want to be a better person. I believe that unconditional love is possible
as we find another person who brings out our best self and also allows us to
return that same favor. What I am searching for is someone who provokes a
yearning within me for continued growth both individually and together. Dallas
has without a doubt lit something unfamiliar, yet incredibly enticing within
me. Never before have I felt more compelled or more driven to search for
something bigger than myself. He has a depth to him that is extremely rare,
with an inviting soul and a kinder heart than anyone I have ever met before.
The more I get to know him, the more goodness I discover. This summer, while
completely unexpected, has made me feel more alive than I could have ever
imagined. My growing feelings for Dallas, along with many exciting memories so
far and of course more to come, inspired my leaf this week on beautiful
connections and what it means to truly share moments with great people.
This past
weekend, I traveled to Dallas’s hometown in the Fresno area to spend time with
his family. I met his mom and sister a few weeks ago, so I was especially looking
forward to getting to know them more. Since Dallas has truly captivated me in
many profound ways these past couple of months, it has been a pleasure to see
where he came from. I very much enjoy his mom, Anna, and sister, Lyric. They
opened their arms to me and from the moment I met them, I felt the love they
all had for each other. Like I said a couple weeks ago, I am thankful to have
been able to feel that kind of love and was ever so blessed to get to experience
it again over the weekend. I also got to meet Dallas’s grandma, two aunts,
uncle, and several younger cousins, each leaving such a special imprint on my
heart. Time was spent enjoying one another’s company, going to a water-park,
wrestling with the little boys, and judging the fish taco cooking throw-down
between Dallas and his Uncle.
Since I
began my personal journey to a wholehearted life, I have been blessed to
encounter and feel the presence of so many remarkable people around me. This
weekend was no different as I felt incredibly comfortable and moved by the
graciousness of Dallas’s family. Their love for one other powerfully reflects
the endurance and strength that is created under that capacity. My leaf this
week is about embracing others through opening myself to those around me. Yes,
I was nervous to meet Dallas’s family, but the nerves are not triggering
anxiety anymore, rather a yearning to understand and practice self-compassion.
I valued authenticity over everything else and opened myself up to the
beautiful connections of a wonderful family.
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