I would say that this relationship filled a void in my life, but there really hasn’t been a void lately. It’s more like a little dollop of self-care during my week—like getting a pedicure, massage, or curling up with a good book. For a few moments, someone wraps me up in love, holds me close, and makes my worries go away.

For the first time, I’m learning to train my mind not to leap to thoughts of how to better take care of him, or to plan how we’ll blend our lives.

Sometimes, I find myself angry at the male population in general (for all the obvious reasons but more so) because men have let me down in so many ways. Too often, I entered into a "partnership" only to find I was the one doing the heavy lifting.

When I had that thought today, I heard my subconscious answer back:

“Partners serve a purpose, but they’re not your purpose.”

Journal prompts:

If you feel drawn to write about your own goals and purpose, here are some prompt ideas! Feel free to pull Tarot cards to help you answer them as well!

* Big-Picture Goals and Dreams: What are the big-picture goals you’re currently holding onto? Describe each goal, and explore why it’s meaningful to you. How do these goals align with the life you envision for yourself? Consider any smaller, practical steps that could help keep you focused on these priorities, even when life gets busy or relationships come into play.

* Self-Reliance and Purpose: Reflect on a time when you felt truly aligned with your purpose. How did it feel to trust yourself fully, and how can you nurture that feeling in your current journey? What steps could you take to reinforce your commitment to your own goals, even within a relationship?

* Redefining Partnership: In what ways have your past relationships shaped your views on partnership? Consider the balance between supporting a partner and maintaining your independence. What boundaries or values can help you create a relationship that feels both safe and self-honoring?

* Moments of Intimacy as Self-Care: Think about small moments in your life that feel nurturing and grounding, whether with a partner or in solitude. How can you intentionally incorporate these "dollops of self-care" into your routine? What do these moments teach you about the kind of love and presence you want to create in your life?

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