"I’m not the silly romantic you think. I don’t want the heavens or the shooting stars. I don’t want gemstones or gold. I have those things already. I want…a steady hand. A kind soul. I want to fall asleep, and wake, knowing my heart is safe. I want to love, and be loved.”
―Shana Abe
This quote speaks to me on a profound level. My marriage and subsequent divorce have taught me exactly what I do and don't want in love and life. I don't need fancy things. I don't require a big house or an expensive car. Things don't interest or impress me. I crave deep connection. Kindness. Loyalty. Respect. I want, no, I need to feel safe. I want there to be no doubt of my partner's love for and dedication to me. I don't need that person to be around 24/7. We can have our autonomy. Nevertheless, be true and give me a strong yet gentle love. Give me a soft, safe place to land. Don't abandon me when I need you most. Don't make me regret trusting and giving you my heart. I will take it back faster than lightening strikes. My only hope is that won't be too much to ask from the next person I give my heart to.
Friend, never settle for less than you need and deserve. Life is too short to be anything other than happy.
In the meantime, here are some book recs for the hopeless romantic in us all. Today's trope is Sheltered Heroines.