Regardless of how the past has presented itself to me, I am grateful for everything that has happened because I am a firm-believer that everything is happening for me and to help me grow.

Some might see my relationship past as unlucky but I disagree. It all had to happen so that I could be the person that I am today: someone who is strong, kind, understanding and full of wisdom. Yes, I have some negative qualities too. But it is through experience that I can learn to be more understanding, compassionate and gain more wisdom through awareness and choosing options that serve our higher purpose.

I am completely done with any of my former partners and the reason why is because I don’t see a present or a future with them. Every time that I go back to the past and revisit a romantic situation (mentally or physically), I am reminded of why it won’t work out moving forward. And, I deserve to be in a relationship that I don’t hesitate entering.

I have faith and truly believe that I will meet my equal, someone who is kind, ambitious, smart, thoughtful, speaks up for the truth and treats all women with respect as much as they do men. I haven’t met this person yet but when I do, I will know. Not because I believe in a Disney romance but because I will connect to them on a deeper level, one that has let go of games, control, sexual obsessions, what society pushes on us and who wants to leave a positive imprint on The World.

It has taken my past to get here. And, I am grateful for all of my exes. I have learnt many lesson. Here are 12 of them:

1. If I believe in love and equality, I have to implement it first.

2. I can’t force someone to be a better version of themselves. Their potential and who they are, are two different people.

3. There is no rush to ‘forever’.

4. Love is not enough.

5. We can all speak but character is shown in actions.

6. Sometimes being strong is listening and seeing a different side.

7. Just because I am not to meant to be with someone, doesn’t mean that I have to hate them.

8. The idea of being with a particular person can block forms of love from entering our lives.

9. Love is never wasted.

10. Sometimes we love those who can’t reciprocate. It doesn’t make us dumb or stupid, we are allowed to believe in love and give people chances.

11. Being in a relationship with someone who isn’t ready is torturous and a waste of time.

12. The person that I am meant to be with is myself. Yes, I have partners who enhance my life and help me grown but if I can’t be with me, how can anyone else be with me?