Welcome to my little corner of the internet, where words weave the mosaic of my thoughts and dreams. I’m a storyteller at heart, ink-entwined and forever captivated by the beauty of language. Between the pages of life, I find a sanctuary—a place where emotions take form, and imagination knows no bounds.
Here, you’ll discover musings, poetry, and reflections inspired by the world around me. Writing isn’t just a passion; it’s the rhythm of my soul, the way I connect, express, and breathe.
Join me on this journey of prose and possibility—where every sentence holds a heartbeat and every word tells a story.
Life has a way of leaving marks on us—wounds from heartbreak, failure, or loss that can make us feel broken or unworthy. Yet, one of life’s sweetest gifts is finding someone who sees past the cracks and messiness to the beauty hidden underneath. Someone who doesn’t turn away from our flaws but leans in, uncovering the strength we may have forgotten.
To be truly seen is to experience a connection that transcends appearances. It’s having someone who acknowledges your scars, not as signs of weakness, but as symbols of resilience. These are the people who don’t simply tell you to move on—they help you heal. They carefully stitch your wounds, sprinkling glitter over the imperfections, and remind you that even broken things can sparkle.
These people see us not as damaged, but as diamonds in the mud. With patience and care, they help brush away the dirt and reveal the brilliance beneath. They don’t stop there; they help us dream again. Where we see barren, parched land, they envision fountains of possibility. They build with us, piece by piece, creating castles of hope on foundations we thought were too fractured to hold anything.
There’s a profound power in being seen this way. It shifts how we view ourselves, especially in moments when self-belief feels out of reach. When someone chooses to stay, to look deeper, to believe in us despite the chaos we carry—it’s a reminder that we are worthy. Not someday, not when we “fix” ourselves, but right now, as we are.
Yet the beauty of being seen doesn’t end there. It’s a gift that inspires us to look outward and offer the same grace to others. To truly see someone is to meet them where they are—to embrace their humanity, honor their story, and gently remind them of their strength. It’s not about fixing anyone. It’s about walking beside them, holding space for them to rediscover their light.
Think about the people who have done this for you. The ones who stood by you when things felt hopeless. The ones who believed in you even when you couldn’t. Their kindness likely left an imprint on your soul, shaping who you’ve become. Now, ask yourself: How can I pay this forward?
Every small act of compassion has the potential to transform a life. A kind word, a listening ear, a simple acknowledgment of someone’s worth—these are the seeds of hope we plant in others. And when those seeds grow, they often sprout into a ripple effect of kindness, reaching far beyond what we can see.
There’s something magical about this cycle. When we show others they are worthy of love and care, we begin to see that worth in ourselves too. We’re reminded that while life may be messy, messy doesn’t mean broken. Messy can mean real, raw, and alive.
If you’ve found someone who sees you in this way, hold onto them tightly. Cherish their presence and the light they bring into your life. And if you haven’t, know that such connections often come when we least expect them. Meanwhile, remember that you are already enough, scars and all.
The journey to being seen begins with showing up as your authentic self. It means embracing vulnerability, opening yourself to the possibility of connection, and trusting that the right people will meet you where you are.
Life isn’t perfect, and neither are we. But in the midst of the mess, there is beauty. There is hope. And there is the possibility of being seen—not as someone who needs to be fixed, but as someone who is already worthy.
Here’s to the healing that comes with being seen and the courage it takes to see others in the same light. Because in the end, our scars are not the end of our story. They are simply chapters in the journey toward becoming whole.
Here’s to hope. Here’s to being seen, and embracing the power of connection.
Recently, I had a conversation with a friend—someone who has always believed in me, even when I doubted myself. She’s the one who encouraged me to keep writing, long before I found the courage to share my words or create my website to let anyone outside my own thoughts hear what I had to say.
When I told her I had restarted my website, her excitement wasn’t just about my writing—it was because she understood the journey behind it. She had witnessed my doubts, my endless questioning, and my starts and stops. As we spoke, I realized just how much I had learned during those quiet years when I wasn’t sure if my voice even mattered.
Back in 2018, when I first launched my website and began sharing my writing on Instagram, I was hopeful. I thought the people closest to me would be my biggest supporters—friends and family celebrating every vulnerable piece of me I dared to share. But instead, I was met with silence and, sometimes, even criticism.
Some ignored my posts entirely, while others assumed everything I wrote was about them, often asking:
“Is that about me?” “What’s going on with you?”
When I didn’t immediately respond to texts or calls, they would check my Instagram. If I posted, I’d often get a message like, “You’ve been posting on Instagram, but ignoring me.”
Here’s the thing—many didn’t know about Instagram’s scheduling feature, or maybe they chose to ignore it. If they understood how scheduling works, I guess they wouldn’t have asked those questions. Instagram allows you to schedule posts in advance, which I mostly did while juggling work, life, and raising two toddlers at the time. Despite working a full-time job, people assumed I had endless free time. The truth is, it became exhausting trying to explain it.
There were times I abandoned my accounts and created new handles. Eventually, the same people would judge me for it. Social media, which once felt like my sanctuary, became a space I dreaded. Even when I tried to avoid them by creating new accounts, they would follow me again, repeating the same toxic behavior. I needed to step away, and it took me a long time to feel comfortable following people I knew—not because I was arrogant, but because some of them had hurt me and made me second-guess my writing. Strangely, I felt more comfortable around strangers, or random people online who didn’t have preconceived judgments about me.
I received discouraging comments like:
“Do you get paid for all the writing you do?” “Why do you bother when there are so many other writers doing the same?” “Nobody has time to read these things you write.”
Many didn’t know that my writing extends beyond motivational quotes and poetry. When I first started writing, I shared real stories, and I still do. Motivational writing wasn’t my niche at first, and I’m still not tied to one. I discovered motivational writing through random posts I made on Facebook, where people encouraged me to write my own quotes.
Despite it all, here’s my truth: I don’t write for attention. I write because it’s how I express myself. It doesn’t matter if my posts are liked or validated. If my words resonate with just one person, that’s enough. If no one resonates with them, that’s fine too. It’s my platform, my space, and I share because it’s something I love to do.
And here’s what I’ve realized—some people just won’t relate to your posts or engage with them. Sometimes it’s simply because it’s you. And that’s okay. I’m not sharing this piece for validation; I’m sharing it to express my truth.
It took me a while to reach this point. I had my Instagram account for over two years before I finally decided to start posting again. It took countless pep talks to myself to take that first step. I had to silence the voices of the naysayers—those who tried to convince me my words didn’t matter. I distracted myself with other things, but I kept coming back to writing. And even though I didn’t share publicly for a long time, I never stopped. Writing is part of who I am; it’s something I’ve done since childhood.
For years, I hid behind the pen name Tola Belva—a combination of my middle name and a nickname from a friend. Initially, I loved the persona it created, but I later realized it was also a shield—a way to hide. It gave me an illusion of protection, but the more I hid, the more I felt like I was betraying myself.
It took me a long time to write as me. To stop measuring my words by likes, shares, or comments. To stop thinking my writing had to be for someone else.
When I started to doubt myself, what once felt like a safe space began to feel like a risk. Each post seemed like an invitation for judgment. I deactivated my Instagram more times than I can count—not because I had nothing to say, but because I was afraid of who might be listening. At times, I even considered hiding behind anonymity again, so I could write without fear.
But in that silence, I realized something crucial: I wasn’t writing for validation. I was writing because I desired to.
One funny thing I’ve noticed is that some of those who are quiet and rarely post on their timelines are often the first to view other people’s stories. Yet they still sit in judgment, criticizing those who post frequently. No disrespect to those who choose to post less—that’s your personal choice, and you’re free to express yourself however you like. But the line is crossed when certain people judge others for posting more often. If they’re allowed to be themselves, why should others be expected to limit their expression? As long as no one is causing harm, we should all be free to express ourselves however feels right.
Writing has always been my therapy, my way of making sense of the world. When I chased validation, I lost sight of that. Chasing likes and approval pulls you away from creativity—it clouds the art itself.
I got tired of hiding. I got tired of shrinking to make others comfortable. I got tired of feeling like I had to explain why I write.
I used to share my writing only with a small group of close friends and family—people I trusted. Putting myself out there was a brave move, but that bravery eventually led me to retreat. I needed time to separate my writing from expectations. I needed to remember why I write.
And today, I can say that I’m in a better place. My dad’s support, along with my sister’s encouragement—both of whom share my love for writing—kept me going and reminded me to never stop.
I no longer need everyone to understand me. I no longer need approval to do what I love. I write because it’s who I am, and I share because somewhere, someone might need to hear my words.
As I spoke with my friend recently, we both reflected on how far I’ve come. I’ve learned to set boundaries, to stop letting others’ opinions define my worth. I’ve learned that starting—even in uncertainty—is better than standing still, waiting for everything to align perfectly.
There’s power in taking that first step, even when you don’t know where it will lead.
Starting, even in small, messy steps, makes the path clearer. Standing still—frozen by fear or the need for validation—only keeps you stuck. The world doesn’t wait for you to get comfortable. It moves whether you do or not.
I’m writing again, not because I have all the answers, but because I’ve come to understand that I don’t need to. There’s freedom in starting, even without knowing where it will take me.
This journey isn’t perfect, and I’m still learning. There are days when I question if anyone will read my words or if they will matter. But that’s okay. What matters now is that I choose to keep going, even when it’s hard.
What I’ve realized is that the only approval I need is my own.
Today, I look back at the doubts, the hesitations, and the judgments and see them for what they were: distractions. I’ve let go of the need to please everyone, and I’ve found strength in trusting myself and my voice.
In retrospect, I don’t blame certain people for doing certain things. I allowed them in my space in the first place, and I let their snide comments and discouraging words get to me. It’s a lesson. I’m not the same person I was in 2018. I’ve learned, unlearned, and relearned on my journey. I’ve learned to ignore people’s toxicity, and I’ve learned to build resistance. I’ve also learned to use the unfollow and block buttons without guilt. It’s funny to remember there was a time I felt so guilty unfollowing or blocking people for being toxic. And I get it—I may even be the toxic one in some people’s lives. Perhaps my posts bother them. Perhaps certain things I do make them uneasy. Whoever feels that way could unfollow me too. That’s okay. It’s just social media. Ultimately, we should all do what works for us.
To that friend, and to everyone who has always believed in me: Thank you for seeing me when I couldn’t see myself, for not giving up on me even when I wanted to give up on myself. Your constant encouragement means a lot to me.
This post is as much for me as it is for anyone reading it. It’s a reminder that no matter how many times I’ve stumbled, I always have the choice to get back up. To start again. To speak my truth.
If you’re reading this, I hope it speaks to something inside you that’s been waiting to be heard. Maybe you’ve been holding back, afraid to start, afraid of what people might think, afraid of failing.
I want you to know this: Your voice matters. Your passion matters. And the world is waiting to hear it.
If you’re unsure where to begin, that’s okay. Start where you are. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be planned. Just begin.
Because when you move—even in small steps—the path begins to reveal itself. And when you keep going, the journey becomes the reward.
Your dreams are worth chasing. Your story is worth telling. And you are worth believing in.
Start where you are.
And keep going.
Side Note: If you’re a writer like me or a content creator, here’s a tip: Even though I work a 9-5, I use the scheduled posts functionality sometimes, dropping my posts exactly when I want them to, while balancing a busy work-life.
There are times when life feels still, like the calm before the storm. And then there are seasons like this—a season that roars with opportunity and pulses with promises. We are in a season of transformation, a golden time where everything we touch turns to gold, where our ideas take root and flourish, and where every step we take is met with amplified results. This is more than a moment; this is a movement.
This is the season where dreams don’t just come true—they overflow. What once seemed distant is now within arm’s reach, and what we create carries the potential to shape our future and inspire others to do the same. The work of our hands is blessed beyond measure, and the vision in our hearts is fueled by an unstoppable energy.
We are the architects of change, designing lives and legacies that will ripple across generations. We are the builders of dreams, laying foundations with intention and crafting structures that will stand the test of time. And we are the doers—the ones bold enough to bring imagination into reality.
Let this truth resonate: anything we touch will prosper. Anything we build will rise. Anything we envision will expand far beyond what we could ever have imagined. This is not blind optimism or wishful thinking; this is the result of purpose-driven action, relentless focus, and a deep belief in the power of this season.
What Makes This Season Special?
In this season, growth isn’t just a possibility—it’s inevitable. The universe aligns with us, multiplying every seed we plant. Every effort, big or small, is met with a return that surpasses our expectations. When we take a step forward, new doors open. When we speak life into our dreams, they begin to take form and soar.
But this season doesn’t just come to us—it requires us to step into it boldly. It calls for faith, action, and consistency. It asks us to believe in the power of what we’re building, even when challenges arise. Because challenges will come—they always do. Yet in this season, challenges aren’t obstacles; they’re stepping stones. They push us higher, make us stronger, and refine our vision.
The Call to Create
This is not a time to play small. This is not a time to doubt your abilities or second-guess your dreams. This is the time to build boldly, to dream fearlessly, and to act courageously. You are not just a participant in this season—you are its driving force. You are the catalyst that will bring change, the spark that ignites possibility, and the hands that will create something extraordinary.
Let this season ignite your soul. Lean into the abundance that surrounds you and take ownership of your journey. Whatever you set your hands to will thrive. Whatever you commit your energy to will rise and multiply. Trust in the gifts and vision you’ve been given, because they are here for a reason.
Claim Your Season
So claim it—right now. Say it out loud, write it down, believe it with every fiber of your being: This is my season. A season of flourishing, expansion, and overflow. A season where my dreams will take root and grow beyond my imagination. A season where I will rise to every challenge, embrace every opportunity, and create a life that reflects the fullness of my potential.
The time is now. The movement is here. Step into the season, fully and unapologetically. Build boldly. Dream expansively. Act with courage. This is the season where greatness is born—and it’s ours for the taking.
Every day presents countless opportunities to make choices that seem insignificant but hold the power to shape our character. Discipline isn’t about grand gestures or sweeping resolutions; it’s about the quiet, consistent actions that define who we are.
Take something as simple as choosing to place a shopping cart back in its designated return area. A few years ago, I’d often leave my cart in the corner of the parking lot, thinking, It’s just one cart. The store has staff to handle it. But one day, as I placed my groceries in the car and noticed a cart rolling into an empty parking space, I stopped and thought, What if everyone thought this way?
That moment marked a shift. I made a conscious decision: no matter the weather, how far the cart return station was, or how rushed I felt, I would always take the cart back to its rightful place.
At first, it felt trivial. Sometimes I was tempted to leave it behind—especially when it was pouring rain or when the station was far from my car. But I stuck to my commitment. What began as a simple gesture of courtesy soon became an exercise in mindfulness and accountability.
This habit began to ripple outward. Each time I returned the cart, it felt like a small victory—proof that I could follow through on a promise to myself, even when no one was watching. It reinforced a mindset of integrity and responsibility that began to influence other areas of my life.
I started noticing the subtle ways this discipline extended beyond the parking lot. I became more mindful of completing small tasks at work, even the ones no one else would notice. I started returning borrowed items promptly, responding to messages with intention, and respecting deadlines with greater diligence.
One day, while returning a cart, an older man loading his groceries nearby said, “You’ve got the right idea. I wish more people did that.” His words struck a chord. My seemingly insignificant action was setting an example for someone else. Discipline, I realized, wasn’t just about personal growth; it was a ripple that could inspire others.
Discipline, I’ve learned, is not about monumental sacrifices or dramatic changes. It’s about the small, deliberate choices we make every day. Each act—whether it’s returning a shopping cart, sticking to a budget, or following through on a promise—builds a foundation of trust, respect, and self-worth.
Imagine committing to these small acts of discipline consistently. Saving money instead of making impulsive purchases. Keeping promises, even when it’s inconvenient. Choosing patience and understanding in a moment of frustration. These choices, though small, collectively shape the person we become.
The benefits of discipline are profound. It fosters trust—not just with others, but with yourself. It sharpens focus, strengthens resilience, and brings a sense of control and order to life. Discipline reminds us that we have the power to shape our actions, even in a chaotic world.
In a culture that often celebrates shortcuts and instant gratification, choosing discipline is a quiet yet powerful rebellion. It’s a declaration that integrity and effort matter.
So, the next time you’re faced with a choice—whether to return a shopping cart, keep your word, or take the extra step to complete a task—remember that these small acts of discipline are the building blocks of a purposeful, fulfilling life.
It all starts with something simple, like returning a cart to its proper place. From there, the habit grows, shaping every corner of your life, turning ordinary moments into opportunities for extraordinary growth.
Discipline isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Because in the end, it’s not the size of the act that matters—it’s the strength of character it builds within you.
Sophia sat quietly in her dorm room at Westwood University, staring at the walls as memories of the past year flooded her mind. She used to be the girl with a contagious laugh, a dreamer who could light up any room she entered. She aspired to become a psychologist, helping others how she’d always hoped someone could help her. Her friends loved her optimism; it was one of the things they admired most about her.
But as the months passed, everything had changed. The girl who once brimmed with excitement now felt hollow inside. The life she had envisioned for herself had slipped through her fingers, replaced by something she couldn’t escape.
The Beginning of the End
It all began with the allure of a perfect romance. At first, Ryan seemed to be everything Sophia had hoped for —thoughtful, attentive, and full of promises about the future. His gestures were charming, his words sweet, and she believed she had found someone who truly understood her.
But as time passed, the initial spark faded, and what seemed like a deep connection slowly turned into something darker.
Ryan began to undermine Sophia’s independence. He would criticize her choices, question her friendships, and, in time, began isolating her from those who cared about her. He accused her of “disrespect” if she spent time with her friends, and his constant need for control began to feel suffocating. At first, Sophia brushed it off, telling herself it was just a phase—maybe he was just jealous or insecure.
Soon, the verbal attacks started. Ryan would belittle her opinions, make snide remarks about her looks, and call her names when angry. But it didn’t end there. One night, after a particularly heated argument, Ryan grabbed Sophia’s arm, squeezing it so tightly that she could feel the bruises forming under her skin. “You make me do this,” he whispered, guilt clouding his voice. “I love you too much to lose you.”
Sophia didn’t know what to think. She wanted to believe him. She wanted to believe that the man who had once valued her was still in there somewhere.
The Turning Point
It wasn’t until Sophia attended a campus event promoting mental health awareness that everything changed. She listened, captivated, as a speaker described the cycle of emotional and physical abuse, how it often begins with seemingly small gestures of control that gradually escalate. Her heart sank as the speaker’s words mirrored everything she had been experiencing with Ryan.
For the first time, she dared to ask herself: What if this isn’t normal?
That evening, Sophia reached out to her best friend, Sarah, who had distanced herself since Sophia started dating Ryan. Sarah was patient and nonjudgmental, offering a safe space for Sophia to open up. She encouraged Sophia to seek counseling from the university’s wellness center.
The counselor was gentle but direct. “Sophia, no one who loves you should make you feel unsafe,” she said, looking her in the eye. “Leaving isn’t weakness. It’s strength.”
Taking the First Step
It took months of soul-searching, therapy, and countless late-night conversations with Sarah before Sophia could break free from Ryan. But it wasn’t easy. The emotional scars lingered long after the physical ones healed. She had to navigate the maze of guilt, confusion, and fear of what people would think.
Sophia didn’t just break up with Ryan; she had to rebuild herself from the ground up. She reconnected with old friends, threw herself back into her studies, and slowly rediscovered the woman she had been before Ryan’s grip tightened around her. The process wasn’t quick, but she reclaimed her sense of self-worth over time.
Today, Sophia is a passionate advocate for survivors of domestic violence, speaking at schools, universities, and community events across the country. She shares her story to remind others that their safety and happiness come first, no matter how deeply they’re invested in a relationship.
“Love should never hurt,” Sophia says in her speeches. “You are worthy of respect, peace, and freedom. Choose yourself, even when it’s hard.”
The Reality for Many
Sophia’s story, though fictional, mirrors the experience of countless women and men trapped in the cycle of abuse. Domestic violence doesn’t always manifest in obvious ways, and it’s important to recognize that abuse can be emotional, physical, psychological, financial, or sexual. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of abuse:
Emotional Abuse: Manipulation, name-calling, belittling, or gaslighting. This form of abuse often destroys the victim’s self-esteem.
Physical Abuse: Hitting, slapping, choking, or any form of physical harm used to assert control.
Psychological Abuse: Threatening harm to the victim, their loved ones, or pets. Constant fear is instilled through intimidation.
Financial Abuse: Controlling access to money or financial resources to make the victim financially dependent.
Sexual Abuse: Forcing or coercing someone into sexual acts against their will or manipulating them through sexual means.
Men, too, can be victims of abuse. Whether a man or a woman, no one deserves to endure this type of trauma. It is important to recognize that abuse, in any form, is unacceptable. Everyone has the right to live free from fear and harm, and it is never too late to seek help.
How to Leave an Abusive Relationship:
Recognize the Signs of Abuse: The first step is acknowledging that what you’re experiencing is abuse. Understand that love is not supposed to hurt, control, or manipulate.
Build a Support System: Reach out to trusted friends, family, or support groups who will listen without judgment. Isolation often fuels the cycle of abuse, so reconnecting with those who care about you is crucial.
Develop a Safety Plan: If you are in immediate danger, have a safety plan in place. Identify places to go and memorize emergency contacts. Keep an emergency bag with essentials like cash, identification, medications, and clothing.
Seek Professional Help: Reach out to organizations that specialize in domestic violence, such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) or local shelters. They can offer counseling, legal advice, and temporary housing.
Consult Legal Experts: Explore legal options like restraining orders or protective orders to increase your safety. Though the legal process may seem intimidating, it is an important step toward protection.
Believe in Your Worth: Above all, remember that you are worthy of respect, love, and peace. Therapy and support groups can help you heal and regain your confidence.
A Message to All Survivors
Leaving an abusive relationship is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of incredible strength. Whether you are a man or a woman, know that you deserve a life free from fear, manipulation, and harm. You deserve to be loved for who you truly are.
To men: No real man uses his strength to harm. True strength lies in kindness, respect, and the ability to uplift others.
To women: Your happiness and safety should always come first. Walk away from the chains of abuse and choose freedom. You are strong, worthy, and deserving of peace.
Disclaimer: The characters and events in this story are purely fictitious. Any resemblance to real people, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Some relationships, like seasons, come to an end—and that’s okay. There are people I once held close, whose presence I cherished, but our paths have naturally diverged. The connection we shared, though meaningful, has shifted into a memory. This realization isn’t born of bitterness but from understanding that not all relationships are meant to last. Growth often requires letting go, especially when a connection no longer supports who I am or nurtures my well-being.
Confidence didn’t come naturally to me; it’s something I’ve earned through effort and persistence. It’s been forged in the fire of trial and error—falling, getting back up, and learning each time. Every failure became a stepping stone, each attempt a chance to grow stronger. Building confidence is less about perfection and more about resilience.
Setting boundaries, however, was a lesson I resisted for years. I worried that drawing lines would make me seem cold or unkind. But I’ve come to understand that boundaries aren’t about shutting people out—they’re about inviting myself in. They’re a declaration that my mental and emotional health matter, and that preserving them is not selfish but necessary.
Boundaries are a form of self-respect. They protect my energy, allowing me to stay true to myself and avoid the slow erosion that comes with overextending for others. I’ve learned to notice when a relationship no longer feels balanced or uplifting. And while stepping back can feel bittersweet, it’s often the healthiest choice—for both me and the other person. Without boundaries, I risk burnout, resentment, and losing my sense of self.
Of course, not everyone will understand or accept my boundaries. Some might feel hurt, especially if they’ve come to expect my constant availability. But boundaries aren’t about pleasing others—they’re about honoring myself. They’re a quiet yet powerful way of saying, “I matter, too.”
That doesn’t mean the process is easy. There are still days when guilt or doubt creeps in, when I question a decision or wonder if I’m being too harsh. But I remind myself that saying “no” to what drains me is saying “yes” to what restores me. Prioritizing my well-being isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
Boundaries have taught me the true meaning of self-love. They’ve allowed me to cultivate relationships built on respect and authenticity. They’ve freed me to show up fully, without fear of losing myself to people-pleasing or unrealistic expectations. Most importantly, they’ve reminded me that my needs and feelings are just as valid as anyone else’s.
Some may not understand or agree with my boundaries, and that’s okay. Their acceptance isn’t my goal—peace is. Protecting my energy and choosing myself is not an act of rejection but of love. And that, I’ve learned, is one of the greatest acts of strength I can offer myself.
In the quiet moments of our lives, when the world’s noise fades into a gentle hum, we often reflect on unfulfilled dreams. Once vivid and full of possibility, these aspirations can seem overshadowed by the ticking hands of a clock or the relentless march of a calendar. Yet, what if we paused to consider that dreams are not bound by time? What if we embraced the idea that pursuing our passions has no expiration date?
Dreams, by their very nature, transcend the constraints of time and age. They exist in a realm that is both deeply personal and universally shared. They lie dormant, waiting not for the “perfect” moment but for our commitment to act. In this, they are remarkably patient. While we may be shackled by the societal expectation of achieving milestones by a certain age, dreams remain untouched by these arbitrary deadlines. They are ready whenever we are, whispering a timeless invitation to transform thought into action.
The moment we decide to take even the most minor step toward our dreams, something profound begins. The universe seems to respond to our courage with subtle shifts, unveiling previously hidden paths. Challenges that once loomed as insurmountable obstacles take a different shape, revealing themselves as valuable lessons. In these moments of action, no matter how hesitant or small, we start to build the foundation of our aspirations, one deliberate brick at a time.
This shift in perspective is liberating. It allows us to redefine what progress means, removing the pressure of deadlines and rigid expectations. Progress, after all, is not measured by speed but by the depth of our commitment. It is in the willingness to embrace the journey, however long it may take, that we find true fulfillment. The idea of “starting late” becomes irrelevant, replaced by the more empowering realization that beginning is always enough.
The beauty of this perspective lies in its universality. Whether picking up a paintbrush for the first time at 40, learning a new skill at 60, or rediscovering a childhood passion after years of dormancy, pursuing a dream is inherently transformative. Each step forward, however small, is a declaration of your ability to shape your destiny.
To embrace the timeless nature of dreams is to give yourself permission to rewrite your story at any stage of life. It honors the quiet calling of your heart and acts not out of obligation but out of genuine desire. Doing so frees you from the weight of comparison and societal benchmarks. The focus shifts inward toward personal growth and the quiet satisfaction of living authentically.
Ultimately, dreams do not expire. They wait patiently for us to say, “I’m ready.” This truth is both reassuring and invigorating. It reminds us that pursuing our aspirations is not a race but a personal journey. Often perceived as an unyielding force, time becomes a gentle ally when we align it with our inner purpose.
So, no matter where you stand today, remember this: it is never too late to begin again. Dreams, like the essence of who we are, remain constant and timeless, waiting for the day we choose to make them a reality. That day can be today. The power is—and always has been—within you.
Sophia sat quietly in her dorm room at Westwood University, staring at the walls as memories of the past year flooded her mind. She used to be the girl with a contagious laugh, a dreamer who could light up any room she entered. She aspired to become a psychologist, helping others how she’d always hoped someone could help her. Her friends loved her optimism; it was one of the things they admired most about her.
But as the months passed, everything had changed. The girl who once brimmed with excitement now felt hollow inside. The life she had envisioned for herself had slipped through her fingers, replaced by something she couldn’t escape.
The Beginning of the End
It all began with the allure of a perfect romance. At first, Ryan seemed to be everything Sophia had hoped for —thoughtful, attentive, and full of promises about the future. His gestures were charming, his words sweet, and she believed she had found someone who truly understood her.
But as time passed, the initial spark faded, and what seemed like a deep connection slowly turned into something darker.
Ryan began to undermine Sophia’s independence. He would criticize her choices, question her friendships, and, in time, began isolating her from those who cared about her. He accused her of “disrespect” if she spent time with her friends, and his constant need for control began to feel suffocating. At first, Sophia brushed it off, telling herself it was just a phase—maybe he was just jealous or insecure.
Soon, the verbal attacks started. Ryan would belittle her opinions, make snide remarks about her looks, and call her names when angry. But it didn’t end there. One night, after a particularly heated argument, Ryan grabbed Sophia’s arm, squeezing it so tightly that she could feel the bruises forming under her skin. “You make me do this,” he whispered, guilt clouding his voice. “I love you too much to lose you.”
Sophia didn’t know what to think. She wanted to believe him. She wanted to believe that the man who had once valued her was still in there somewhere.
The Turning Point
It wasn’t until Sophia attended a campus event promoting mental health awareness that everything changed. She listened, captivated, as a speaker described the cycle of emotional and physical abuse, how it often begins with seemingly small gestures of control that gradually escalate. Her heart sank as the speaker’s words mirrored everything she had been experiencing with Ryan.
For the first time, she dared to ask herself: What if this isn’t normal?
That evening, Sophia reached out to her best friend, Sarah, who had distanced herself since Sophia started dating Ryan. Sarah was patient and nonjudgmental, offering a safe space for Sophia to open up. She encouraged Sophia to seek counseling from the university’s wellness center.
The counselor was gentle but direct. “Sophia, no one who loves you should make you feel unsafe,” she said, looking her in the eye. “Leaving isn’t weakness. It’s strength.”
Taking the First Step
It took months of soul-searching, therapy, and countless late-night conversations with Sarah before Sophia could break free from Ryan. But it wasn’t easy. The emotional scars lingered long after the physical ones healed. She had to navigate the maze of guilt, confusion, and fear of what people would think.
Sophia didn’t just break up with Ryan; she had to rebuild herself from the ground up. She reconnected with old friends, threw herself back into her studies, and slowly rediscovered the woman she had been before Ryan’s grip tightened around her. The process wasn’t quick, but she reclaimed her sense of self-worth over time.
Today, Sophia is a passionate advocate for survivors of domestic violence, speaking at schools, universities, and community events across the country. She shares her story to remind others that their safety and happiness come first, no matter how deeply they’re invested in a relationship.
“Love should never hurt,” Sophia says in her speeches. “You are worthy of respect, peace, and freedom. Choose yourself, even when it’s hard.”
The Reality for Many
Sophia’s story, though fictional, mirrors the experience of countless women and men trapped in the cycle of abuse. Domestic violence doesn’t always manifest in obvious ways, and it’s important to recognize that abuse can be emotional, physical, psychological, financial, or sexual. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of abuse:
Emotional Abuse: Manipulation, name-calling, belittling, or gaslighting. This form of abuse often destroys the victim’s self-esteem.
Physical Abuse: Hitting, slapping, choking, or any form of physical harm used to assert control.
Psychological Abuse: Threatening harm to the victim, their loved ones, or pets. Constant fear is instilled through intimidation.
Financial Abuse: Controlling access to money or financial resources to make the victim financially dependent.
Sexual Abuse: Forcing or coercing someone into sexual acts against their will or manipulating them through sexual means.
Men, too, can be victims of abuse. Whether a man or a woman, no one deserves to endure this type of trauma. It is important to recognize that abuse, in any form, is unacceptable. Everyone has the right to live free from fear and harm, and it is never too late to seek help.
How to Leave an Abusive Relationship:
Recognize the Signs of Abuse: The first step is acknowledging that what you’re experiencing is abuse. Understand that love is not supposed to hurt, control, or manipulate.
Build a Support System: Reach out to trusted friends, family, or support groups who will listen without judgment. Isolation often fuels the cycle of abuse, so reconnecting with those who care about you is crucial.
Develop a Safety Plan: If you are in immediate danger, have a safety plan in place. Identify places to go and memorize emergency contacts. Keep an emergency bag with essentials like cash, identification, medications, and clothing.
Seek Professional Help: Reach out to organizations that specialize in domestic violence, such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) or local shelters. They can offer counseling, legal advice, and temporary housing.
Consult Legal Experts: Explore legal options like restraining orders or protective orders to increase your safety. Though the legal process may seem intimidating, it is an important step toward protection.
Believe in Your Worth: Above all, remember that you are worthy of respect, love, and peace. Therapy and support groups can help you heal and regain your confidence.
A Message to All Survivors
Leaving an abusive relationship is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of incredible strength. Whether you are a man or a woman, know that you deserve a life free from fear, manipulation, and harm. You deserve to be loved for who you truly are.
To men: No real man uses his strength to harm. True strength lies in kindness, respect, and the ability to uplift others.
To women: Your happiness and safety should always come first. Walk away from the chains of abuse and choose freedom. You are strong, worthy, and deserving of peace.
Disclaimer: The characters and events in this story are purely fictitious. Any resemblance to real people, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
Have you ever felt like life was testing the very limits of your emotional resilience? Maybe it was during a heated argument with someone you love, or perhaps it happened when an unexpected challenge at work made you question your own abilities. In those moments, how did you respond? Did you allow your emotions to take over, or did you take a step back, breathe, and choose a calmer, more thoughtful path forward?
A few years ago, I found myself in one of those defining moments. I was deep into a project that meant the world to me—something I had poured countless hours into, sacrificing weekends and late nights, all while pouring my heart and soul into it. The deadline was approaching, and just when I thought everything was going smoothly, unexpected problems began to emerge. One after the other, they seemed relentless, as if they were intentionally designed to tear apart everything I had worked for. Frustration began to set in, and stress surged through me, almost as though I was on the verge of losing control. For a brief moment, I felt as though I might break under the pressure of it all.
But then, something shifted within me. In the midst of the chaos, I realized that I had a choice. I could let my emotions dictate my reactions, pushing me toward rash decisions, or I could pause, recalibrate, and approach the challenge with a clear mind. I chose the latter. I stepped away from my desk and went for a long walk to clear my head. I practiced deep breathing, allowing myself to calm the storm brewing inside me. Slowly, as I allowed myself the space to think, the tangled mess of my thoughts began to untangle, and solutions that had previously eluded me started to present themselves. When I returned to my work, I was able to confront the challenges with a renewed sense of purpose and focus. That choice—choosing to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively—proved to be transformative.
This experience taught me that emotional maturity isn’t about suppressing your emotions or pretending that they don’t exist. It’s about managing them in a way that empowers you, rather than allowing them to control you. Emotional maturity is not something you achieve overnight, nor is it a final destination. It’s a journey—a continuous process of growth and self-discovery, where every moment is an opportunity to improve, to become better, to evolve.
At its core, emotional maturity is about navigating life’s inevitable ups and downs with grace and self-awareness. It’s the quiet strength to make thoughtful decisions instead of acting impulsively, the ability to pause, reflect, and choose your response with intention. It’s a practice that evolves as you do, as you cultivate the habits and mindsets that allow you to approach life’s challenges with calm and clarity. It begins with self-awareness—understanding your emotions, knowing what triggers them, and recognizing how you react. When you understand your emotional landscape, you gain the ability to shape your responses in a way that serves your well-being and aligns with your values. Simple practices like journaling or meditation can uncover patterns in your emotional responses and provide profound insights into how you can manage them more effectively.
Emotional maturity is also rooted in empathy and compassion. It’s about stepping into the shoes of others, seeing the world through their eyes, and responding with kindness—not only toward others but also toward yourself. This understanding of others is the foundation for healthy communication, enabling you to express your thoughts clearly and respectfully, to listen deeply without interrupting, and to handle conflicts with grace.
Life will inevitably throw stress, anger, and frustration your way. It’s how you handle these emotions that will define your growth. Healthy coping mechanisms—like exercise, mindfulness, or creative outlets—can transform stress from something that weighs you down into an opportunity for growth. Anger, when met with a moment of pause and deep breathing, can become a powerful teacher instead of a destructive force.
Another cornerstone of emotional maturity is setting and respecting boundaries. Knowing your limits and communicating them clearly—not just to others but also to yourself—helps protect your emotional well-being and nurtures trust in your relationships. Equally important is accountability. Owning your mistakes, offering sincere apologies when needed, and making amends fosters integrity and strengthens connections with others.
Patience and tolerance are virtues that emotional maturity nurtures over time. Life rarely unfolds exactly as you expect it to, and people will not always think or act as you hope. Cultivating patience allows you to embrace delays and setbacks with grace, while tolerance invites you to appreciate different perspectives and experiences.
Growth is the heartbeat of emotional maturity. It’s about actively seeking opportunities to learn, whether through books, workshops, or simply by paying attention to the lessons life presents. Surrounding yourself with people who challenge and inspire you fosters this growth. Forgiveness also plays a critical role in emotional maturity. Letting go of grudges doesn’t mean excusing wrongdoings—it means freeing yourself from the weight of resentment, allowing you to move forward with peace and clarity.
And then there’s gratitude. The simple yet profound practice of shifting your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant. Even in life’s darkest moments, there is always something to appreciate. Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring challenges—it’s about choosing to see the opportunities and the beauty within them.
Emotional maturity is not a fixed destination but a lifelong journey. It’s about responding to life with a resilient heart and a steady mind, not about striving for perfection but for progress—one thoughtful choice at a time. Every day offers a new chance to grow, to refine the tools that help you navigate the unpredictable terrain of life.
So, when the next storm of life threatens your emotional resilience, remember this: you always have a choice. You can choose to pause. You can choose to breathe. You can choose to grow. In that choice lies your power, your freedom, and your strength.
The loonyman looks at us, his eyes alight with an untamed wisdom, To him, we are the deranged, trapped in a world of fragile illusions. We, in turn, look upon him with quiet pity, Unaware that his mind sees more than ours ever could. When he approaches, We flee as if his presence were a plague, Our hearts pounding in the rhythm of panic, Not realizing that in his gaze, we are the ones infected. In his world, our haste only serves to confirm the insanity of the ‘sane.’
His tattered clothes flap in the wind like a flag of defiance, A man stripped bare of the trappings of society’s order. We pity him, his hair a wild mane, his skin worn like weathered stone, Yet he looks at our polished selves with contempt, Skeptical of the cost of our immaculate appearance. To us, he is a tragic figure, lost in a labyrinth of his own mind, A prisoner of his own delusion, While we stand proud in our “reality,” shackled by the chains of normalcy. To him, we are the puppets, Tethered to an illusionary world that demands conformity, Willing to sacrifice freedom for the cold comfort of fitting in.
He wonders aloud, Why would we choose crisp fabric over the earth’s raw embrace? Why, when the wild wind beckons, Do we remain bound to the suffocating fabric of our society’s rules? “Fools!” he cries, “Enslaved by convention!” “Ancient fools who have forgotten the joy of untamed existence.” And to him, we are the true madmen, Chasing shadows, too blinded by our own reflections to see the world beyond.
He watches a man glide past in his Bugatti, The car sleek, and polished — a symbol of everything we strive to be, But to him, it is a mere tin can, a hollow vessel of vanity, A bucket of dreams built on the illusion of success. What he sees is not power but a desperate grasp for meaning, A bucket carrying empty promises on wheels.
Then he calls to us from his cart, A rickety, weather-beaten vehicle, a kingdom in disguise. What we see as a broken-down relic, He sees as a chariot of freedom, A vessel to carry him through the wild seas of his imagination. He invites us to join him, to take part in the ride of life, But we, too enmeshed in our worlds, Politely decline. “How dull you all are,” he sighs, “You miss the thrill of this journey, The true exhilaration of the unknown.”
We look at his squalor, The remnants of his world scattered like forgotten dreams, And we shake our heads, dismissing him as a lost soul. But in his eyes, it is we who are lost, We live in the sterile boxes of our carefully constructed worlds. Our idea of home is built on walls and fences, On things that separate us from the chaos of life. But his world, though ragged and torn, is full of purpose — full of raw, untamed beauty, Where everything is in its place, even if that place is a bit unkempt. He is not mad; He is simply the king of his domain, A monarch crowned not with gold, But with the courage to live fully in the mess of existence.
We stand in our pristine homes, Clutching our sanitized realities, And yet, it is he who lives in a kingdom of wonder, Where chaos is not an enemy but a muse. We cannot see his greatness, For we are too blinded by the gleam of our own sterile lives. His world is untamed, raw, and free — A kingdom not of gold but of meaning.
In his eyes, he is a king, A ruler of a kingdom where rules are not made by society, But by the simple truth of the moment, Where the wild beauty of the world is embraced in its entirety, Where joy is found in freedom, in imagination, In the very act of living without restraint. And in our eyes, he is a madman, Lost to the illusions of his own creation.
But what if we are the ones who have lost touch with that joy? What if his madness is the key to his freedom, To a life lived on his own terms, Unshackled by the chains of conventional thought? In his kingdom, the boundaries of reality are blurred, And what he sees is not madness, But in a world where imagination reigns, Where life is not constrained by rules, But guided by the pure joy of being. We may call him mad, But perhaps it is we who are missing the fullness of life, Trapped in the cages of our own making, Too afraid to step outside and live freely.
In his world, he reigns supreme, Not because of the crowns of gold, But because of the truth he holds — The truth that sees beyond the veil of what we call reality, To a deeper, wilder, more beautiful world. And in his eyes, we are the ones who have strayed, Who have forsaken the wild joy of being alive, The thrill of stepping outside the box, Of embracing chaos, of truly living.
We say he is mad, But what if he is the only one who truly understands? What if, in his madness, he is the sanest of us all?
Tọlá Belva 