Manifest-Oh!

As I move closer to the woman I envision I can be, I wrote this manifesto to remind myself of some key factors for living the life that’s best for me.

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There will be those who love you and those who don't. Your job is to love yourself. It might take you a long time to figure out what that really means, but the relentless pursuit of the answer is part of that journey.

Although the grass looks greener on the other side, just focus on your own lawn. Grass is a really difficult thing to upkeep and there will be people who want to walk on it, especially if you live on the corner of the block. But continue to water and cut your grass. And by all means, don't put up a fence because you never know who will walk across your yard and that just might be the person you should meet.

Sit in silence. It's the only way to really hear. 

Take time to figure out what you believe, but by all means, believe in something. Start with yourself.

Live your life with your hands open, ready to receive. So much is for the having, but not if your fists are clenched.

Do not be afraid. Be cautious. Be skeptical. Be analytical. Be perceptive. Never afraid.

There is always enough time and space and room for you. If they say there's not, create your own. It will be more authentic that way.

You are going to fail. But don't just lay down all defeated. Do a few push-ups and planks while you're down there, gather some strength and climb. 

You are not that 12 year-old little girl anymore, lost and abandoned. You have the strength of a thousand women warriors flowing in your blood and there is life in your womb. 

Be bold. 

Be courageous. 

Be loud.

By all means, be free.