My relationship and feelings for Stephen have taught my something about my past. Seth and I were all wrong for each other. We never had that "best friends" potential, not even close. Our relationship was seriously lacking content. I never came to understand him and who he is...and he never came to understand me and who I am. We just weren't compatible that way. His love for my daughter is what made me love him so much....because he loved her as if she were his own. She is the most important thing to me...and he loved her more than her own father. I loved him for that. But the days have passed, slipping into weeks. And the weeks have slipped into months. Someday, the months will have slipped away into years. He does not love Serenity...not anymore. He was not what I thought. I am glad we broke apart the way that we did. While it hurt at the time, it was also a gentle and smooth thing. We had good closure, for the most part.

Stephen and I worked things out. I haven't seen him in nearly 2 weeks. The time apart, or else our close call with a break up, seems to have changed things. Or changed me. I know that I am good enough for Stephen. I know that we have the potential to truly understand each other. However, I do not need him to be happy. I enjoy having him as a part of my life...but I am okay without him. I swore after Seth broke my heart, never again would love make me so vulnerable. Never again would I allow need anyone but myself. Now, because of this, my relationship with Stephen is stronger....and healthier.

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He once said, maybe I came into his life at the wrong time. I do not believe that. I believe I came into his life in the perfect moment, for us both. I met Stephen when I was at my very, very lowest point. The way he made me feel allowed me to bottom out-and then I was able to start climbing upwards again. And I believe as well…I am a good influence in his life. When I come to fully understand what he needs and what I need to do…I will help him as he has helped me. A true partnership…even if it’s not forever.

He needs someone who can handle him. What does that mean though? It means listening to him when he talks; if you learn what to look for, he’ll tell you exactly what he needs. It means, when he is an asshole, learning to roll your eyes and brush it off. It means, sticking by his side, even when it hurts. It means, never telling him what to do…but never being afraid to offer friendly advice. It means, accepting he will always look at other women-and trusting that he will never take it further than that. It means leaving him alone when he is angry. It means understanding his weaknesses and accepting his flaws. It means never depending on him for your happiness. It means giving him time and space to be himself and live his life.