Top Six Halloween Films
By Emery W.
It’s the spookiest time of the year… Especially in cinema!
he world is full of “scary” movies. Those meant to haunt our nightmares for endless evenings. I’ll be the first to admit that I had to watch The Little Mermaid, and at least three episodes of Spongebob Squarepants after seeing Insidious the first time because of how scared I was.
Yet, as scary as that film (and others) are, these are my top six favorite movies that really scream, “Halloween!”
Scary movies aren’t reserved solely for October 31st, but the ones I have listed deserve an unspoken place on the shelves of all-things Halloween.
#6. The Nightmare Before Christmas
Ah. Tim Burton. The man who creates the creepiest, yet not incredibly scary movies. Something about the dark, spooky atmosphere of all of his films sparks Halloween vibes without sending the viewer into a heart attack. With that being said, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a classic for all families that stems the line between both Halloween and Christmas so take your pick as to when you choose to watch it. Hell, if you’re like me, you watch it for both holidays.
#5. The Craft/The Covenant
If you’re into magic, witchcraft, and witches that aren’t green and ride brooms, then this is a movie for you. Another one that isn’t a horror or thriller flick, but definitely great to watch during the season. If you haven’t seen it, you’re missing out. If you’re in the mood, there’s an all-male cast version with the same kind of concept, but not quite as cult category worthy. Both are still great films.
#4. t’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
A classic, and safe for all-ages. If your elementary school teachers didn’t push in the TV cart with VCR around Halloween time, and show you this movie then you are truly missing out on life.
#3. Halloween Town Series
We grew up with Marnie, and sat biting our nails watching her discover that she’s a witch, and harness her powers. Talk about a fierce role model for young girls. Disney Channel did something completely right when they made this series. The only real left-turn they took was recasting the actress who portrays Marnie in the last film. But hey, new Marnie or not, a good franchise is a good franchise.
#2. Halloween Series
Michael Myers. The masked man who haunted my dreams for years. This is one of the scary movies everyone wants to watch if they want to be legitimately scared. Full of silent-inducing terror, and blood, the whole series is a must-watch. Just make sure it’s the old-school series, and not the remake.
#1. Hocus Pocus
e title says it all. Hocus Pocus is the epitome of all things Halloween. It doesn’t matter when you were born, this film is a cult classic, and must-see. So much so that I will not give away any plot details because you should watch for yourself. Just don’t be surprised if you find my future son named Thackery.
Long story short, if you want to really get in the spirit of Halloween, turn off the lights, grab some popcorn, and watch in one, if not all, of these films.
7 Gilmore Girls Watch Party Must Haves.
by Emery W.
SEVEN MORE DAYS!!!!
Alright guys, we are officially seven days away from Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life, and I don’t know about y’all, but I’m not able to contain my excitement any more.
Now, if you haven’t been following the watch schedule I came up with last month, mic.com has a great list of the most important episodes to watch before the revival. Catch up on said episodes, then come November 25, make sure you have these seven must-haves for your GG watch party.
1. Vicious Trollop
You can’t start a revival party without looking the part. One of my favorite episodes is when Lorelai and Emily spend a mother-daughter weekend together, and eventually bond over their love of Vicious Trollop; a perfect pink lip shade. Not only can you find the product online (which I urge everyone to do), but if you don’t have time to get it, just wear your favorite pinkish-red color. When you do, tag us on Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat with the tag #OTEViciousTrollop. We’ll repost our favorite ones!
2. Coffee
You don’t have to watch every episode of Gilmore Girls to know that our favorite mother-daughter pair are the epitome of coffee addicts. Make a pot (or 10), and drink up!
3. Food
Lorelai and Rory are the kind of women that every other woman hates; they eat every that’s considered wrong yet their bodies always look right! I suggest for this night only to binge Gilmore Girls style. Order a pizza, Chinese, buy some Pop Tarts, marshmallows, Red Vines, and anything else that makes you want to vomit. Even add an apple in there for good measure.
4. Team Swag
The one thing everyone is talking about is which of Rory’s old flames she’ll inevitably end up with. In my opinion, I don’t think she’ll end up with any of them because she’s a fierce woman in her own right. However, if my greatest dreams were to come true, Team Jess will prevail. For the occasion get creative, and show us your best take on your team’s swag. Sport a leather jacket if you love Dean, wear your favorite band tee in homage to Jess, or have an umbrella handy if you’re a Logan lover. Use the tag #OTETeam, and show us who your favorite guy for Rory is. Extra points of you can make good use of our favorite underdog, Marty.
5. The Rory
Who remembers the posh 21st birthday party Emily threw for Rory in season 6? I know I do, and I’ve always wanted to try Rory’s signature drink, The Rory. The characters on the show don’t think too highly of it, but it’s up to you to make your own opinion. I won’t give you the recipe. You’ll have to watch the episode yourself to get it.
6. Your Favorite Book
Rory is the ultimate book worm. You’ll remember in season 2 when she and Lorelai take an impromptu trip to Harvard, and Rory freaks out over not having read enough books in her 16 years of life. Make sure you have your favorite page-turner with you. You get major props if it’s a Proust.
7. Kleenex
The feels that this revival are already more than I can handle so Kleenex will undoubtedly be required for this four-episode extravaganza. Make sure you’re stocked up.
We here at On The Edge will be live-watching the revival the moment it releases on Netflix next Friday, and we want you to join us and me this an interactive experience. Get your revival items, log onto and follow us on all our social media accounts, and live this tale with us.
The Ultimate Gilmore Girls Watch Party Schedule.
By. Emery W.
Where you lead, I will follow…. STRAIGHT TO NETFLIX.
Anyone else out there a massive Gilmore Girls fan? If you’re not, you should be and soon! Netflix is releasing a four-episode special of the popular CW show entitled, Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life on November 25th. In preparation for such a momentous occasion, I’ve decided to re-watch the entire series in 34 days. That’s right; 7 season, 153 episodes, in 34 days.
If you’re like me, and have a full-time job, semi-regular workout routine, and somewhat of a social life, this is a rigorous binge-watching challenge, but totally worth the time. The best part about it is, it’s all on Netflix so I can watch while I’m on the treadmill.
Of course, you don’t have to follow this exact schedule. This happens to be fixed to my regular functioning hours, but if you have more time, more power to you to watch. Plus if you’re an insomniac, you can watch through the night, and pull a classic GG move, and load up on coffee the next day. It’s your choice.
*Each episode is approximately 45 minutes long (give or take) which is where my time line came from.
Beginning Friday, October 21st:
- 8 PM – 11 PM Season 1, Episodes 1-4
Saturday, October 22nd:
- 10 AM – 11:30 AM; Episodes 5 and 6
- 8 PM – 11 PM: Episodes 7-10
Sunday, October 23rd:
- 9 AM – 12 PM; Episodes 11-14
- 3 PM – 4:30 PM; Episodes 15 and 16
For the following six weeks, the schedule will go as follows:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday; 7 PM – 10 PM (4 episodes)
Wednesday*; 6:45 PM – 9 PM (3 episodes)
Friday; 8 PM – 11PM (4 episodes)
Saturday; 10 AM – 11:30 AM/2 PM – 5 PM (6 episodes)
Sunday; 9 AM – 12 PM/3 PM – 4:30 PM (6 episodes)
*Wednesdays are carved out this way so that I can still have my American Horror Story fix.
You see? There’s plenty of time for lunch breaks, Sunday football, and a weekend social life if you so choose to have one. If you follow this schedule, the last episode of season seven would be watched on Thursday, November 24th. One day before the new episodes are released.
Sound complicated? Don’t worry. Like I said, it’s not a must that this schedule be followed to a T. Watch at your own pace. But I do highly suggest watching the series because I’ve got a feeling, these new episodes are going to be great.
Play Review: Rent's 20th Anniversary Tour.
By. Emery W.
Last Sunday, I was extremely fortunate enough to see a Rent: 20th Anniversary Tour show in Dallas. If you read my review of Hamilton then you probably get the picture that I’m a pretty big musical buff, and Rent, written by the late Jonathan Larson happens to be in my top five favorites.
I remember the first time I saw the film adaptation of the play, and instantly fell in love with the story. I spent hours on YouTube searching for videos of live performances, listening to the original cast album, and memorizing the lyrics. It’s also important that I point out that the film adaptation and live musical have a plethora of differences, and my review reflects my thoughts of the stage play, not the movie. It was quite hard for me to push the original casts voices out of my head while watching the 20th Anniversary show, but I managed to do it somehow.
This was the first live musical I’ve ever seen aside from the year my high school’s fine arts department did West Side Story back in 2009. The staging was perfect, and painted the picture of late 80’s, bohemian, New York City. The plot of the musical centers around a group of eight friends, each with different backgrounds and their own personal struggles. I don’t want to give too much away, but it was written for the times (1989-1990) and includes topics of homosexuality, drugs, and HIV/AIDS.
The show opens with Mark, the show’s narrator and resident film maker portrayed by Danny Harris Kornfeld. He brings the character to life impeccably, and is basically the second coming of Anthony Rupp who originated the role. Mark is best friends and the roommate of Roger, former front man of a successful rock band who is a recovering drug addict, and all-around homebody due to some inner demons.
Kaleb Wells, who portrays Roger does an excellent job of exuding the essence of a recovering addict, but personally I was missing the raw, husky rock star voice one comes to expect in a former rock star. But what Wells lacks vocally, he more than makes up for in his emotional acting chops. Every scene he has with his love interest, Mimi (played by Skyler Vope) pulls you in with every word.
Skyler Vope plays a great, 19-year-old Mimi who’s addicted to drugs and Roger. Her voice is unique, and you can feel her emotion in every note. Mimi is best friends with the cross dressing Angel played by David Merino.
Angel may be the most iconic and complex character in the musical, and Merino does him so much justice. He’s exciting, charismatic, and the heart of the group. Angel is in a relationship with Collins, the group’s anarchist and voice of reason. Aaron Harrington is by far, the breakout performer of the entire show. As Collins, his powerful, round baritone voice is booming. The most incredible part is this was Harrington’s first experience on stage.
Both actresses who portray Joanne and Maureen (Jasmine Easler and Katie Lamark, respectively) shined as a couple. Their chemistry on stage is uncanny, and their performance of Take Me or Leave Me rivaled that of Idina Menzel and Fredi Walker who originated the roles.
Of course the supporting ensemble cast members can’t go without recognition. The performance wouldn’t be possible without each of them with standout member Alia Hodge whose solo during Seasons of Love sent chills throughout my body.
All-in-all, there’s never a way to copy an original, and the Broadway cast from 20 years ago will always be the most iconic, but the current touring cast members do not disappoint in bringing Jonathan Larson’s vision to life.
If you have the opportunity arises for you to see this show in your area, I urge you to take in the experience to see the show with a message that has resonated for 20 years, and will continue to for years to come. Jonathan Larson would be proud.
6 Ways to Keep Your Skin Hydrated During the Winter.
by Val N
Hey everyone! Winter is coming and if you’re like me, you probably suffer from dry, chapped skin during the cold season. Kirsten and I have talked about it so many times; we constantly complain about our dry skin and how we can remedy it. Well have no fear! This week’s beauty editorial is to provide you with some tips on how to keep your skin hydrated… even during the winter season so you can look fresh and glowing all year long!
1) Drink Water
This is a no-brainer but the key to staying hydrated is to drink plenty of water, no matter what season it is. Oftentimes, I opt for soda or coffee, which actually dehydrate you. To fix this problem, I bought a water bottle that has marks for 8oz, 16oz, 32oz, etc. I bring that water bottle to work and leave it on my desk so it’s constantly in my sight. And it’s a constant reminder to keep drinking water. There are also apps, such as Waterlogged, that remind you to drink up and help you track your water intake so you can stay hydrated.
2) Exfoliate Once a Week
As contradictory as it sounds, exfoliating once a week helps to keep your skin hydrated. I say once a week because if you overdo it, you’ll end up with even dryer skin or worse… I’ve overdone it before and my skin started breaking out. The point of exfoliating is to get rid of the dry, top layer of your skin and allow newer, fresher skin to reveal itself. I like to use St. Ive’s Apricot Fresh Skin Scrub.
3) Use a Facial Moisturizer
After exfoliating, make sure to apply moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated. Since my skin tends to be dryer during the winter time, I switch to gel based moisturizers. It really helps lock in the moisture compared to cream based moisturizers. One of my favorites is Philosphy’s Take a Deep Breath Oil-Free Oxygenating Gel Cream. For something more affordable, I also like to use Garnier’s SKINACTIVE Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream, which is very lightweight and smells so good!
4) Carry Lotion with You
It’s as important to keep the rest of your body as hydrated as your face. For the last few years, I’ve worked in the restaurant industry as a server. That means I’m constantly washing my hands, which tends to dry my skin out. And it’s worse in the winter time. So over the years, I’ve learned to always carry hand lotion with me and apply it right after I wash my hands. I have a bottle of Yes to Coconuts Protecting Hand & Cuticle Cream on my desk at work and I also keep a tube of the Body Shop’s Wild Argan Oil Hand Cream.
5) Apply Lip Balm
On top of carrying hand cream in my purse, I also make sure to carry lip balm with me. It’s an absolute essential for me throughout the entire year. Sometimes we forget our lips are also considered skin and it’s one of my biggest pet peeves when my lips are chapped and unkissable. My all-time favorite is EOS Smooth Sphere Lip Balm in Sweet Mint. It leaves my lips soft, supple, and kissable! It also tastes sweet like mint.
6) Use a Face Spray
This is a bonus tip because I prefer to use a face spray during the summer. But it works just as well in the winter time! During the summer time, I spritz face spray to freshen up and cool off. But during the winter time, you can use face spray to keep your skin hydrated when when it’s feeling dry. My favorite is the Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herb, and Rosewater. It’s cheap, portable, and smells just like roses!
Those are 6 tips on how to keep your skin hydrated during the winter time. What are some of your tricks for keeping your skin hydrated? Let us know! Don’t forget to like and follow us on social media.
Book Review: Crank
by Emery W.
When I was in high school, I had a best friend who (after being wrongfully sent to the town’s alternative high school during Junior year) started living her life in a downward spiral. She finally transferred back to our school, but I barely recognized who she was; she was high on marijuana most of the time, cut class, and went to raves every weekend. She’d quit doing color guard, and dropped out of honor’s classes.
Before I knew it, it was the night of our graduation, and I’d be going off to college at the end of the summer, and I had no idea what my best friend was doing.
The Fall of my freshman year at college, I picked up a thick book with an interesting cover simply titled Crank for the long bus trip to an away game. From the moment I opened the book, I felt like I was reading my best friend’s life from her eyes.
Crank by Ellen Hopkins tells the story of Kristina (who later begins referring to herself as Bree), and the events that led to her long and faithful history with hard drugs, sex, and journey to adulthood. The novel is loosely based on the life of Hopkins’ own daughter’s battle with drug addiction.
We begin the story with Kristina living in Reno with her mother, stepfather, and younger brother until she decides to visit her dead-beat father in Albuquerque. As a straight A honor roll student, Kristina didn’t delve much into the harder side of life; boys, sex, drinking, drugs, etc. Until she met Adam.
Over the span of her time with her father, Kristina (now known as Bree) becomes addicted to the same lifestyle she shares with her father.
I don’t want to give too much away, but I will tell you that this is one that I couldn’t put down. It put into perspective the thought processes of an addict, and why they do what they do, and what makes it so hard for them to stop.
The way Hopkins develops the character is unique in its own right because it is written in verse. I was confused a bit at first because I’d never read a novel in the style, but it made me yearn for more. Even though it’s a thick book, it didn’t take me long to read. I’d describe it as an absolute page-turner.
What’s great is that the book offers you the chance to both pity Kristina for her actions while simultaneously hate her for the destruction she brings to everyone important to her.
It’s classified as a YA novel, but definitely not a read for anyone who can’t handle vivid descriptions of sex, drugs, and some violence.
Ellen Hopkins has somehow managed to write a book that would make for an incredible film adaptation in the future. And this is only the first one! There are two sequels, Glass and Fallout that I urge everyone to read. If you can handle it. I’ve read quite a few of her YA novels (all which were written in verse), and continue to look forward to more. I’d rate this a solid 10/10.
3 Cheap Activities for a Fun Weekend
by Emery W.
Itching for a fun-filled weekend, but don’t have the money to club/bar hop? Try these three activities for a good time, each day of the weekend.
Some people crave that feeling of dressing up, and spending a night out on the town after a long work week. Others, myself included, prefer the sanctity of a quiet home life with the occasional need to have a social life. Whether you’re the latter or a social butterfly, there are countless things to do when you want to have some fun with other people other than movie nights and house parties. All without breaking your bank account.
One of the greatest gifts of living anywhere is the availability of places to have fun without spending a ton of money while simultaneously having a good time with the people you choose to surround yourself with. You can spend your whole weekend out without really feeling like you’re making an effort to put yourself out there.
Live Music Friday
“If you get lucky, you may get to see the next big band…”
No matter where you live, there will be someone; solo artist or band who’s trying to get their music out to the masses. Small town or big city, look for local musicians to support.
One of my favorite things to do with my friends on a Friday night instead of hitting up the bar and drinking, is going to watch my boyfriend’s band play a show. Not only is it a way to hear some really great music while hanging out with friends, it’s also a great way to meet new people. If you don’t know anyone personally who’s into music, then ask a friend, or even go to your city’s website. Most times, there are events posted on the website to get people to experience the town’s social atmosphere.
If you get lucky, you may get to see the next big band, and be able to say, “I saw this band/musician live beforethey blew up.” Plus, if the music’s great, and the crowd is good, there’s always a chance to meet someone with similar interests as you. Bam! Instant friendship.
Cost: $ - Find a band that’s playing at a location that doesn’t have a cover charge. Just be sure to tip the band if you enjoy the music. Starving artists are a real thing.
Karaoke Saturday
Let me just put this out there; I am a karaoke FIEND. I used to be too scared to go up on stage and belt one out, but now it’s the best stress relief I could ever ask for. Trust me, everything you see in the movies about karaoke night is true.
Singing in front of a crowd of people isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but watching other people participate can be just as fun. There are two kinds of karaoke singers; the amazing ones who would undoubtedly get a three chair turn on The Voice, and the not-so-great people who may be tone deaf, but look like they’re having the time of their lives, and chances are, they are. Who, knows a couple of cheap beers at your local karaoke dive bar, and you could be on stage imagining yourself as the next Queen Bey.
So, the next time you feel like going out, and the club scene isn’t really your thing, look for the nearest karaoke bar where participation isn’t mandatory, but highly encouraged.
Cost: $$ - Some places require a drink minimum to sing, or if you’re not singing, you may want to have a drink or two while you watch others. My tip: find a dive bar. The drinks are usually cheaply priced, and have a good, down-to-earth crowd.
Sunday Brunch
“Turn it into an outing with friends to spend some last minute time together before the long work week begins.”
The best way to end a fun-filled weekend is to enjoy a nice brunch with some friends. Sunday is the day of rest, and brunch falls during the perfect time of the day; early enough to still sleep in, but not too late where you feel like you’ve wasted your day.
It’s not necessary to dress up for brunch, and if you choose to eat outdoors on a beautiful day, it gives you an excuse to wear a cute pair of shades to cover the hangover look some will surely be sporting. Turn it into an outing with friends to spend some last minute time together before the long work week begins. Order a Bloody Mary, and eat some food that’s just heavy enough to be considered a meal without ruining your appetite before family dinner or game day wings.
Cost: $$ - It all depends on you and what you order.
Weekends, if planned correctly, are the perfect time to let loose and have fun, and these three activities are perfect for everyone; introvert or extrovert. If that’s the what you want to do. A nice, quiet night at home is always an option too.
An Open Letter to Augustus Waters.
by Kirsten F.
Dear Augustus,
Yes, you Augustus Waters… I am writing an open letter to you. Yes you, the fictional character, the young man who I assumed to be a figment of my wandering imagination while reading “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green. I am writing this open letter because I have many questions for you.
So many things went through my mind reading this well written piece of literature. However, tonight when I saw this book take life upon the big screen, more questions came to mind. You see I am a creature of wonder, not habit. I want to know everything that I possibly can about everyone. Including those who do not actually exist, I am what some would call a “mess”. I read books, and I fall in love with a particular character(s) or the story as a whole. Well in this case it is both; I fell in love with the story, and well with you.
The moment you walked into Hazel Grace’s life I knew you would be good. I knew that you would bring her some form of adventure, and new experiences.
How did you know that the moment you bumped into her (in the literal heart of Jesus) that she was someone you wanted to know? That this beautiful young woman, with the tubes in her nose, and the oxygen tank stuffed backpack was going to change your life. You sat and looked at her, and I mean really looked at her. You saw passed her obvious signs of illness, and you just saw her. That my dear Augustus is so breathtakingly beautiful, it’s as if you were falling in love at first sight.
Now I have never been a believer in such a myth, love at first sight has always seemed a bit skeptical to me. How the hell does someone fall in love with another human they have yet to actually get to know? Is it their outer appearance? They way they walk? How they move their mouth when they speak? Maybe it’s the look in their eyes… I don’t know, but what I do know is that you have made a believer out of me.
Now yes I know, “It’s just a story, it isn’t real”, but isn’t it though? Isn’t there some parallel universe where you and Hazel exist? You are alive and well in the mind of the author, and every single person that read the book.
I know what you’re thinking, “I died in that book. My story ended.” I don’t think it did though, I think that was just the beginning of your story. I know that initially the story was meant to be about Hazel Grace and her take on life, and thoughts about the world. I however, believe that the story was about you. How you came into her life at its unintentional plateau and moved it along. I can’t tell you what exactly it was that I felt when you came into the picture, relief, excitement, or maybe it was just my classic case of curiosity. Who is this guy? What is his story? How did he end up at this place, and why the heck is he so fascinated by her?
As the story went on though, I got the answer to those questions, but then more formed from those answers. What made you decide to go with Isaac to the group that day? What made you decide that Hazel was going to be the one that you fell in love with? How did you become so happy, and how is it that even when you are knowingly dying you can still find the time to live?
I have a fear Augustus, a fear that I am never going to live the life I want. That I am never going to experience every piece of life that I know I was destined for. So tell me, how or when did you decide that “living” is what you were going to do? Was it when you thought you were going to die the first time the reason? Or maybe you’ve always been that way… Alive.
It would seem as if I am demanding answers from you, almost how you and Hazel demanded answers from your “favorite” author. I’m not though, I’m just merely curious, and slightly hoping that while writing this letter I find the answers myself.
As I read and reread your story (a good seven times in fact) trying to find those answers I was looking for I kept coming up empty handed. It wasn’t until I watched your story play out in front of me that I finally began to understand. You see you taught Hazel that life is more than what it’s believed to be. Augustus you showed her how to live, and be spontaneous … Be free.
Even in your last days you managed to make even the most complicated life event such as death seem like a piece of cake. You made love and loving someone else not seem so terrifying, and effortless. I think about that every day, and sure I do love people mostly friends and family members. However I wonder every single day how I could love another person the way that you loved Hazel, or how many people love their particular significant others. I am realistically terrified of such a feeling of letting someone in enough to shake my life.
I don’t like the feeling of letting others get to close to my heart, because although I am the “tough and secure one” I am absolutely terrified of having my heart broken. There was something you said to Hazel when she told you that she was a ticking time bomb, and didn’t want to hurt you. You told her that it would be a privilege to have your heart broken by her.
When I first read this story I couldn’t believe you would say such a thing. You were willing giving this individual the power to do whatever it is to your heart, your soul. I couldn’t comprehend it then, and it drove me insane because I didn’t understand. It wasn’t until this very moment as I write this that I get it, I get why you would give her so much power. Because you loved her, you loved her more than anything. THAT Augustus is what broke my heart in a very poetic and beautiful way. You loved Hazel Grace so much that it didn’t matter if she broke your heart, held it close, or put it in a blinder. All of that didn’t matter, because all you wanted was to be loved by her, and so you were.
I realized that when you love someone as much as you cared for Hazel that even if that person breaks your heart or in your case dies. All that matters is that you loved them, and they loved you. The only thing that is important is that you got to feel that, and THEN I realized that I have felt that, I have felt what it is like to love someone so fiercely and unconditionally. Even though it ended in a tragic and mind altering heart break I felt it. I couldn’t make sense of it then I didn’t understand that even though my heart was broken and my head was in a scary place. I felt love, and I realized that in the end that is all that matters. The feeling of being in love and living in that moment, that is what it’s all about. It’s about going through the rough patches and fun times just too either end up apart or together. It’s a risk; you helped me gain some clarity on that.
On knowing that just by giving someone the option to break your heart is an adventure in itself. It is in fact the ultimate adventure in life, and if you have the opportunity to experience it you should go for it.
My dear fictional Augustus, you have done more than you could imagine. All you wanted out of this life was to be remembered and you’ve done more than just that. You’ve made an impression on millions of people. People just like you, some not, and those of us who are somewhere in between. You may have died young, but you lived a thousand lives, and for that I can’t say thank you enough. I will take the words you said, and the way you made me feel with me forever. See that’s the thing about books, fictional and non fictional they will always leave some form of impression on you. Good or bad, they leave a little piece of themselves with you.
Thank you for giving me a piece of you.
Okay and Always, and everything thing in between
What Makes 'Hamilton' the Best Musical for Our Generation.
by Emery C.
“I mean come on, Angelica Schuyler going toe-to-toe with Nicki Minaj? Thomas Jefferson dropping bars like Slim Shady? “
I’m a ‘90’s kid which, in my opinion, is hands-down, the best decade to have had your childhood. We are the up-and-comers; the future leaders of our nation and the world. So, among all of the drama and struggle that the world is going through, there’s one thing that brings us together: music.
Over the past month I have been unapologetically obsessed with ‘Hamilton: An American Musical’ written by none other than the eloquent Lin-Manuel Miranda. Don’t believe me? Watch his acceptance speech from the 2016 Tony Awards.
I have never been a major history buff. In fact, I had to repeat U.S. History in high school. So how did a Broadway musical drive me to learn the history behind the American Revolution, and inspire my now in-progress historical fiction novel about America’s first great sex scandal (ahem, The Reynolds Pamphlet)? The music.
“We are the up-and-comers; the future leaders of our nation and the world. “
‘Hamilton’ tells the story of America’s first Secretary Treasury, Alexander Hamilton. The intro tune alone tells his childhood history as an orphan raised in the Caribbean, and his journey to New York. From then on, each song pans out his life; meeting his “frienemy” Aaron Burr, his battle buddies, becoming George Washington’s confidant, meeting his wife, making his way into politics, and eventually his death. I don’t want to give too much away, but you can stream the Original Cast Album on Spotify for the full effect.
Lin-Manuel Miranda was somehow capable of capturing this history lesson in Hip-Hop and R&B music perfectly. Even if you’re not a fan of rap music, it’s more than just grown men and women spitting rhymes. There’s emotion, heart, and soul throughout every song. It’s unlike any musical you’ve ever heard before. I didn’t grow up in a family that appreciated the theater, but being in fine arts programs throughout high school and college opened up my eyes to a world of storytelling I didn’t know existed. For those people out there who aren’t immersed in the arts like I am, ‘Hamilton’ is still an experience that will change your life.
Even if you’re one of the poor unfortunate souls like me who can’t make it out to a Broadway show, the soundtrack is good enough. Lucky for us, PBS will be airing a recorded version with the original cast this fall. There will even be a mix-tape of the musical released. A mix tape! What other musical have you heard of can successfully do that?!
“There’s emotion, heart, and soul throughout every song. “
Another perk of this great cast and ensemble is that a majority of its members are people of color. Yes, imagine the founding of our country being placed in the hands of Latinos, African-Americans, and people of mixed race. It’s glorious. I mean come on, Angelica Schuyler going toe-to-toe with Nicki Minaj? Thomas Jefferson dropping bars like Slim Shady? That alone should make you want to listen, and after, you’re going to want to read up on details of people you may have never even heard of (someone get me an #AndPeggy beanie immediately).
Yes, Les Miserable, Rent, Chicago, The Color Purple, Dream Girls, etc. are some of my favorite soundtracks to listen to. They all tell incredible stories surrounding the lives of impeccable characters who teach us valuable lessons, but not many of them take the facts of our nation’s history, and apply them into terms that our generation uses and understands. Not to mention it applies to everything that is happening in our world today.
If you haven’t yet, listen to this soundtrack and absorb its information. Stream it, download it, YouTube it, whatever you need to do to get this cultural experience. Allow yourself to listen. That would be enough.
5 Favorite Fall Lip Colors
by Valerie N
The fall season is in full swing and with the cold weather come boots, flannel, scarves, pumpkin spiced everything, and of course… fall lip colors. You’ve got your choice between gloss, satin, or matte finishes. And beyond that, you get to choose your favorite range of shades from nudes, to pinks and reds, to dark stained lips. Wearing different lip colors are my most recent favorite way to finish my makeup look and to express myself. I’ll wear a certain shade all depending on my mood. When it comes to fall time, I usually lean towards darker shades. Keep reading to find out 5 of my favorite fall lip colors!
1. Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in “Fig”
The Smashbox Be Legendary Lipstick in the shade “Fig” is great for fall. The site describes the shade as “red grape” and I think it’s perfect for more casual days when you’re headed to class or meeting a friend for coffee. Unlike my other favorite fall lip colors, this product is satin-smooth and also works to hydrate your lips. It also contains ingredients such as shea butter, vitamin C, and vitamin E to protect your lips. With this lipstick, you’ll be looking… wait for it… legendary.
2. NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in “Vintage”
The NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in “Vintage” is the absolute perfect vampy shade for fall. NYX’s website describes the shade as “plum with mauve undertone.” I love their Liquid Suede line because the product glides on so easily and stays put for a long time. I can go a whole night without having to re-apply. The only thing about the “Vintage” shade is that it’s so dark but sheer, you have to apply a few layers or else it’ll look blotchy.
3. NYX Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in “Soft-Spoken”
Another one of my favorite shades from the NYX Liquid Suede collection is “Soft-Spoken.” The shade is described as a mauve nude and it’s perfect for all seasons. I’ve worn it throughout the summer and plan on wearing it well into the wintertime. I’ve gotten so many compliments while wearing this color and will continue to use it until I run out… or find a new favorite shade.
4. ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in “Tulle”
If you can’t tell by now, mauve nudes are my favorite lip shades. Another mauve nude that’s my favorite is the ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in “Tulle.” Tulle is described as a dusty mauve burgundy. It definitely looks like I have wine stained lips when I wear this shade. And there’s definitely nothing wrong with that.
5. ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip in “Love Bug”
ColourPop’s Ultra Matte Lip products have easily and quickly replaced NYX lip products as my favorite. They’re cheap, easy to apply, long-lasting, and the perfect dupes for the Kylie Cosmetics Matte Lip Kits because they’re basically the exact same formula. Another ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip shade I’ve been wearing a lot lately is “Love Bug.” Unlike the other berries and mauves I’ve mentioned, this shade is more of a rich terracotta and I think it looks great on my warm toned skin. This is another shade I can see myself wearing during both winter and summer times.
What are some of your favorite lip shades for fall? Let us know! Don’t forget to follow us on social media for more updates.
7 Ways To Get Optimal Beauty Sleep.
by Val N.
Daylight Saving Time ends this coming Sunday so don’t forget to set your clocks back an hour! But more importantly, we all get an extra hour of sleep. I know I’m excited! Especially when you’re constantly keeping busy with work, school, and a social life, it can be difficult to get the right amount of sleep every night. But I’ve found some tricks that help me get a good night’s sleep. Here are 7 ways to get optimal beauty sleep.
1. Set a Sleep Schedule
Setting a sleep schedule may seem childish but it will definitely help you sleep better. Try to get daily activities, like packing your lunch or planning tomorrow’s outfit, out of the way before your bedtime. Then try to wake up at the same time every morning, even on weekends. That way, your body and sleep cycle are in sync. Try to do this for a few weeks and your body will get used to waking up at the same time every day.
2. No Caffeine After 5PM
I am a bonafide caffeine addict. I’ve said this many times before and I’ll say it again because it’s true – my day hasn’t truly started until I’ve had my first cup of coffee. But over the years, I’ve found caffeine to be the reason why I can’t sleep at night. Whether I’m sipping on soda, coffee, or tea, I force myself not to drink any after 5pm. That’s my cutoff time. Or else I’ll be wired and can’t sleep at night. It’s all about self-control and I believe this is one of the reasons why so many people, like myself, are addicted and dependent on caffeine.
3. Work Out
A lot of times when I come home from work, I’m so tempted to change into my pj’s and take a very long nap. Then I realized napping took away time from being productive and getting things done during the day. I’d always wake up feeling more tired and I wouldn’t be able to sleep at night. So now instead of taking a nap, I go to the gym for 45 minutes to an hour. Even if I’m tired, I force myself to go because I know I’ll leave the gym feeling much more energized. Not to mention, working out releases endorphins, which relieve stress, and makes it easier to fall asleep at night.
4. Take a Hot Shower or Bath.
Some people like to shower when they wake up in the morning but I like to do it before bedtime. I do it because I like going to bed feeling fresh and clean. Taking a hot shower also helps me relax and calm my nerves, making it easier to fall asleep.
5. Use Lavender Oil
Another thing that helps me calm my nerves and sleep at night is lavender oil. I have a small bottle of essential lavender oil, which I rub on my wrists and the soles of my feet. I can instantly feel myself relaxing and getting ready to fall asleep. You can also leave drops of lavender oil on your sheets and pillow case to optimize your beauty sleep. Drops of lavender oil can also be added to your bath or shower to help you relax.
6. Drink a Glass of Water Before and After Sleeping
I don’t like going to bed with an empty stomach. But I also don’t like to snack before bed. So I drink a glass of water before going to sleep. I purposely do this so I wake up with a full bladder and have to get out of bed. It may sound funny but it’s one of my secrets. And it works better than setting multiple alarms just minutes apart from each other. I also drink a glass of water when I wake up to get my metabolism going. It also helps me be more alert and energized in the morning.
7. No Electronics Before Bedtime
This is probably the most important factor for optimal beauty sleep but so many people, including myself, fail to go through with it. With so many social media apps and games to play, it’s hard to put your phone down before bed. But in order to get a good night’s sleep, it’s absolutely essential to shut off all electronics – your phone, laptop, tablet, tv – at least an hour before going to bed. It’s because these electronics emit a blue light, which mimics sun light, and tricks your brain into thinking it’s day time. To trick your brain into thinking it’s bedtime, just shut your electronics off. Instead, opt for journaling, meditating, or reading an actual book before bed.
Those are some of the tricks I’ve used to get optimal beauty sleep! What are some of your tips for getting a good night’s sleep? And don’t forget to set your clocks back an hour on Sunday!
I See You.
by Kori P.
I see you.
Sitting over there in the corner booth, a gorgeous girl by your side. You are surrounded by friends, love and laughter, but every time you reach for a drink, I see you.
I see you force the smile everyone fell in love with.
I see you hide the sorrow in your eyes.
I see you hide the emptiness in your heart.
I see you.
I am so sorry you didn’t know that I could see you. I am so sorry you felt you were fighting alone. The demons consumed you, and we all sat back and watched. For that I am sorry.
It was only a few days before your untimely death that you spoke about your will to live. Your will to fight. I mistook your fear for strength, how could I be so stupid? What could have been a cry for help was simply responded to with, “You got this” and “I’m praying for you” by many who truly did love you and believe in you, but we missed it. Somewhere along the path we were walking we missed the bread crumbs you were dropping. The clues that you were giving up, but not quite ready to let go.
At what point did the birds come? At what point did they eat the crumbs? This is something I must know, for you see, maybe I could go back to that time and draw a line in permanent marker. For then, you’d never lose your way. When it seemed all the crumbs were eaten, and you were too far gone, you’d see my marker trail and find your way back to us, to yourself.
But this life has no rewind button, we only live each moment once. We must breathe one breath at a time, one breath after another. You must never lose the will to take that next breath, for it is then you have decided it is not worth it.
That is what you did. You decided.
The way you took your life will forever haunt me. I live in this town; I drive past the place quite often. It’s as if you wanted us to remember your pain, the pain you learned to hide so well. I weep when I think of you standing there alone, note in hand as you came to terms with what you were going to do. My heart aches when I picture you scared and hurting. I am angry with God for not letting someone drive past you and stop you. I am angry at your close friends for not being there. I am angry, and it isn’t fair.
You let it beat you…control your mind and actions. The guilt I feel is unbearable. The pain is indescribable. It is an awkward empty feeling, a burning in the pit of my stomach. I want to throw up, scream, shout, run as fast as I can until the road runs out. Run away from it all. Escape it all. When will it end?
My friend I hope your soul has found peace. I hope you give comfort to those of us who love you and are mourning. Your name is one we will honor; your death will not be in vain.
Sweet loves that this reaches, I know you share my pain somehow. Perhaps you need someone to tell you they see you. If that is the case, then please know I do. Someone out there always sees you, you are never alone. Depression is real. Addiction is real. And we know that.
If you are out there then hear this, for you have choices to make.
Curl in a ball and pity yourself in a dark room with the curtains shut tight, that’s is fine, shut the world out. Center yourself. Find yourself. Find your worth. Pray
Scream and shout. Throw things. Pitch a fit. That is fine. Release the anguish so it doesn’t build inside
until you feel you have no choice.
Bust down the doors of the church after hours, seeking God’s face. That is fine. He will meet you at the altar. He always will.
Breathe, for this too shall pass.
You are loved. You are worthy.
But my friend, if you decide nothing else, decide this:
Live.
Community Chat: How Can I Become Healthier?
Asked by Emery W.
Let me start off by saying that I love myself. I made sure of that before making myself available for anyone to love me. Which is probably why I stayed perpetually single for so long. I know what I want, and won’t settle for anything less. Never have, and I probably never will.
With that being known, I visited the gynecologist for an issue that lots of women have; irregular periods. I’m usually pretty normal, but for the first time ever, I completely missed one cycle, and was over a week late for another. My first thought was, “Oh no, I’m pregnant!” An unplanned pregnancy, while a blessing, wasn’t something I ever imagined happening to me (hence the term unexpected). Alas, after four negative pregnancy tests, I knew there was a bigger problem.
I went through all of the options in my head; hormone imbalance, fertility issues, infertility, ovarian cysts. None of them sounded glamorous, but being the worry wart that I am, I had to find out. The night before my appointment I started spotting. Phew! My visitor was about to arrive. But still, I had to go see the doctor to see what the hold up was.
I get there, and the nurse has me do a urine sample, and has me weighed (more on that later). I then get a pap smear, and let me tell you ladies, I was not prepared for that. Oh my word, it was one of the most uncomfortable sensations I’d ever felt. After that, a blood test and vaginal sonogram, all of which turned up nothing. So what was the problem?
Let’s go back to when the nurse took my weight. The scale showed me a number I’d never seen before. 339. I stepped on the scale, and I currently weigh 339 lbs. This is the first time in 25 years of living that I’ve felt ashamed of my weight. I have always been a big girl; taller, wider, all-around bigger than everyone else. I’ve tried dieting, eating healthy, and physical activity yet none of them worked. Mostly because deep down I didn’t want them to work. I could still march, and I wasn’t confined to my bed, or to a wheel chair so I didn’t think it was a problem.
Now that I’m in a committed relationship, and surrounded by friends who love me, and accept me for who I am, I have had no desire whatsoever to lose weight. I’ve been happy. With the body positivity movement rampant, I began taking pride in my full figure, not thinking of my health, or taking into account warnings from doctors that I’m never too young to have a heart attack or a stroke.
Not only am I genetically prone to cysts, and diabetes is a running problem in my family, I’m now experiencing problems with my cycle that could lead to fertility issues. Children are definitely a part of my future, and as shallow as this sounds, I want to have a baby belly to show off.
A symptom of my anxiety is the tendency to stress, and when I stress I eat. I eat when I’m bored, I eat when I go out, I eat just to have something occupying my hands while I watch TV. I’ve always known that it has been a problem, but now I’m ready to look at myself and actually see that I need to be healthy. I need to lose the weight. I don’t want to be a skinny Victoria’s Secret model, my body’s not built for that. I want to be healthy.
So, I’m opening up the floor to responses and suggestions. I’m not afraid to say that I need help. I love myself, but I need to love my healthy self first? Leave a comment below!
My Queerness + I.
by Shelby D.
When I was about four years old I realized that maybe I liked girls as much as I liked boys. It never fully registered because I always just thought I was naive and strange, but that feeling I always got in my stomach when another girl would brush my hand remained there throughout my adolescent years.
I remember being thirteen and all of my friends were starting to question their sexualities. This is the same time that being bisexual was becoming a trend—and it pissed me off. I had friends walking around saying they were done with boys and ready to date girls, but two days later they would be walking around the halls with a new boyfriend. One day they were gay—the next they were straight—and who was I to tell them who they were at that time in their lives?
Who am I to tell them who they are now?
During that time, though, when being bisexual was becoming a “thing”, I was struggling even harder with my sexual identity. It would be something that I would battle with until I was twenty two years old.
Turning fifteen helped me realize many things about myself; I was a horrible liar, I was growing even more overweight, and the boyfriend that I had held onto for the last three years was never going to change. But the one thing that I had realized about myself was that I was indeed bisexual, and it felt amazing to own it.
I have never been the type to be quiet about my identity, and I hope that is something I carry with me until I die. That is something I have to thank my mom for. You see, my mom identifies as lesbian. That fact alone has made many people question not only my existence, but my own identity as well. And with so many people wondering if her being gay had any influence on my identity, I began to question it myself.
I had embraced the bisexual identity for over seven years. Over this seven years I would stand up for myself and my community that it is more than possible to love more than one gender, and that you are certainly not going to hell for loving who your heart wants to love. I also spent a good amount of those seven years educating myself on the LGBTQA community—I mean, that was my community, wasn’t it? Shouldn’t I known everything there is to know about my people?
Well, I got a lot more than I originally had sought out.
Over the summer of 2015 it hit me that something was really missing from myself. I had just returned back to school after a year and a half off and I was finally taking classes that I was in love with. A few of these classes talked a lot about gender identity, which led me into a training program on how to be a better ally. I was already involved in the LGBTQA club on my campus, so I thought this would be a great opportunity. It ended up being a lot more than that.
I learned about what it meant to be two spirited, pansexual, demisexual, aromantic, and so much more. I found myself correcting people on terminology and verbiage when it came to my community, and I was so proud of myself! This effect lasted over the summer, and it left me wondering if maybe labeling myself as bisexual wasn’t the right fit for me at all.
Did this mean that I was a fraud? Did this mean that my experiences before this revelation were invalid and that I was just as fake as my friends in middle school? I had so many questions but not enough answers.
I finally accepted the fact that being pansexual was who I was, and saying that out loud felt one hundred times better than when I came out as bisexual. Everything felt natural and on course. Of course, when I told my friends there were all very accepting of it because they had already been used to my previous identity and they were always going to support me no matter what. When I told my mom however, in a long text about how I knew this wouldn’t be a big deal for her, I was surprised to hear how confused she was.
“I think you are just very passionate about this community and you are very loving”, she would say. “I’m just very confused, I don’t know what this means.”
It took me a very long time to not let her response bother me every time we would discuss my identity. I had spent so much of my life questioning if I really loved more than one gender because my mom was the same way, or if that was who I really was. But I knew who I was and why I identify the way I choose. Being queer and/or pan is so much more than the sexual attraction. It’s about the connection you share with others and the mind within the person. And that is what I have always been about.
I could give a shit in regards to the genitals you were born with; just be a decent human being and let me love you. Simple as that.
There will always be people that exist in this world that think those who identify as pansexual are just another breed of bisexuals trying to say that appearances don’t matter. As if we are secretly shallow creatures. Well, maybe your neighbor Susan is secretly shallow, but not me. My queerness uplifts me. My queerness is more than another fill in the blank. And my queerness is more than a debate on Fox News.
My queerness and I keep each other alive—without it I wouldn’t where I am.
Life With Social Anxiety
By Anonymous
I am 25 and out of those 25 years I think that I was an outgoing person for maybe 13 of those years. Up until my teen years I was okay with making friends and hanging out with everyone I met, I didn’t care if I was disliked by anyone. I was on a quest through middle school to make as many friends as possible. I liked to make people laugh and feel as though I brought some sort of enjoyment to their lives.
Then, high school happened and that all went out the window. Suddenly I was concerned about everything and everyone. Does my hair look good? Are my clothes fashionable? Am I ugly? These were daily questions I would ask myself and quite honestly they were questions that I had all of the wrong answers to. Out of nowhere I went from being a social butterfly to a curmudgeon.
You would think eventually I would stop caring about peoples opinions of me, that would have been the smart move. It hasn’t happened yet and here I am at 25 years of age. It’s quite confusing really, I want to have social interaction but the second I go out somewhere I curse my existence and wish I would have stayed home. It’s sad when you get down to it, my constant fear of judgement makes my life about as interesting as watching paint dry.
Maybe one day I will overcome this crippling fear but it isn’t looking good. I don’t make eye contact , I don’t smile, I walk with my head down everywhere I go and I will purposefully avoid contact with people just because I know that they can’t judge me if they can’t see me.
What started all of this? That’s a good question but ultimately I don’t have an answer. I would assume my mind has hidden it away somewhere for me to never find as I’m sure it’s unpleasant. The kicker to all of this is that I’ve just accepted it. I don’t go out anymore, ever. The few friends I do have ask me if I want to go out occasionally and I turn them down time and time again. The fact that I even have friends is a miracle in itself.
Who knows, perhaps one day my social anxiety will leave just as quick as it came on and I shall return to my former glory as that funny guy who goes places. Yeah right, who am I kidding, I’ll probably end up as a crazy cat person by the time I’m 40.
I Love You: An Open Letter To My Best Friend (part one)
Written By Emery W.
“The One I Don’t Deserve”
Dear Best Friend,
We’ve known each other for a decade which is longer than I can say for anyone else I consider my best friend. We went through most of high school together, and for the four years I was away at college, we still remained close. Out of everyone I “left behind” in our home town, you were the only one who made an effort to keep me part of the loop. Sure, we each had our own friends we bonded with while the other was away, but we still remained untouchable. Until now.
When I moved back home, a failure, with my head hung low, you took me in, and made a place for me in this new life I didn’t know you’d created. I mean, I knew, but I didn’t comprehend. I was selfish for those years away. And now still, I feel like I don’t know how to fit into who you are. We know each other better than we know ourselves, and can predict each other’s actions and the outcome before the other makes a decision. Basically, we’re sisters.
In high school I was the older friend; the one who had all of the answers, made the grades, and graduated first. Four years later and things had made a full 180. You were the working woman, committed in your relationship, in bed on time every night, and trying to hold together this misfit group of people we tried to call a family. Yet there I was; no degree, no job, no car, and no direction. When did things change? How were we able to miss each other’s crazy party phase, virginity loss, and first tattoo? You made those memories with someone else, and so did I.
Through it all you remained the same ambitious, selfless, and caring person I’ve always known. But what happened to me? Sensible, smart, responsible Emery? I’d lost myself for almost four years, and thought I could gain it all back when I became the girl who moved back to her old time. No, that’s a lie. I never thought I’d get it all back. I didn’t want to. I wanted to be the one who had done it all, and tell the life stories. In reality that was you. It was always you who taught me about life even when you weren’t trying to. I’ll never be able to thank you enough for that.
I must confess that I spent a lot more time hating you than being happy for you. I wanted these experiences with you, but by the time we were together to have them, the opportunity was gone. I wanted to go out? You had to go to bed to wake up for work in the morning. You had the perfect relationship, another best friend to share inside jokes with, and people who knew you when you walked through the door. You were the reason we had a house to live in, and the car to get us where we needed to be. You had everything I wanted, and I had the friend to mooch off of, and that killed me. No, it KILLS me.
That whole time I used the excuse of being unemployed for my constant state of depression when in fact, it was me who hated myself for being jealous of you, but I couldn’t stop. I didn’t want to stop because I needed someone else to place the blame on.
But then the worst thing in the world happened. People started hurting you and leaving you and lying to you. Hell, I was one of them. But still, you continued to be you, and showed them how strong you really are. You kept working, continued to pay the bills, and take care of everyone else. You may have been crying behind closed doors, but you never let it show. Not to anyone who didn’t matter, and one day I didn’t matter. That’s the day you taught me the greatest life lesson you never knew you gave me; never lose someone’s trust.
I may have gained it back, but I don’t trust myself to hold onto it. It’s that self-deprecating feeling you always tell me to let go of, but I can never seem to. There will always be someone else, but never anyone as close to me as you. You’re my homo soulmate, and the fear of someone coming between that is the most frightening thing in the world to me. I don’t want you to find another Oklahoma companion, or another person to have Grapevine adventures with. I don’t want you to have another best friend, especially one who’s already mine.
This comes off as so hypocritical and selfish, but someone spending our time together hurts, but once again, I’m not being fair to you. I’m trying, Best Friend. Really trying to keep you, but you need more than the sensible, stay-at-home type. I do too, which is why she is that person for both of us, but I’m begging you in the most organic sense of the word to not let her replace me because I swear she has not replaced you.
I write this as an open letter hoping you’ll read it, and knowing if you do you’ll cry. I know you’ll read the words ‘best friend’ in the title, and read it knowing it has to be you. Really, who else is worthy of such precious words? You’ll read this, and you’ll cry just as I’m crying writing it because you’ve known these words to be true though I never spoke them. You’ll comment or text me, and tell me you love me because you speak those words every time we see each other, and I know them to be true. I know all of this because I know you better than you know yourself, and that’s something no one else will ever be able to do. At least, until the man God created to deal with your crazy ass finally reveals himself. Even then, I’ll be jealous, and tell him I know you better.
I love you.
I Love You: An Open Letter To My Best Friend (part two)
Written by: Emery W.
The One Who Needs Me
Dear Best Friend,
I often sit and wonder what my life would be like if you hadn’t walked into it. Not because I have worries about our friendship, but because you’re the best friend that I communicate with the least, but may value the most. There’s an undeniable connection between us that is almost unexplainable to anyone except for us.
You know how you have a friend that’s so much more than a friend, but more like a sibling? Well, as I tell you all of the time, that’s who you are to me; my little sister. Not just because you’re younger than me, but also because, out of everyone I hold dear to my heart, you need me the most.
I’m sure much of that need stems from some experiences I’ve had and you haven’t, but a solid percentage also come from our individual characters. I believe that my true passion has always been, and will always be, helping people. You, my friend (and I mean this in the most unoffensive way possible), need lots of help. You know that I know you’re not crazy, at least, not in the committable sense of the word. You are one of the countless number of women who suffer from a low sense of self-worth.
This letter to you is a testament to every woman in the world who feels like they aren’t worth anything to anyone. You are smart; you have the uncanny ability to always see the best in people even when they’ve shown their worst to you. You’re the kind of woman that other women are jealous of because your spirit soars higher than most. I’ve seen you cry and I’ve seen you worry, but never have I seen anyone more optimistic than you.
You’ve done more by your age than I ever did when I was at that stage in my life, and sure, there have been mistakes and bumps along the way, but never in that time have you given up on humanity. There needs to be more people like you in the world; unjaded. Your heart is so big, and full of possibility, and even when you feel at your lowest, somehow, you pull some encouragement out to give to someone else.
On top of all of these amazing personality traits, you’re incredibly beautiful, but anyone with eyes could see that.
Our friendship is an example that opposites really do attract. On first sight, a lot of people would wonder how someone like me could have a great time with someone like you. I’m tame, sensible, responsible, a big sister in anyone’s definition. You’re young, wild, adventurous, and free. We equal each other out, and that’s all that really matters. Sure, at times it may feel like you need to be babysat or chastised for certain life choices, but that’s not the way the world works. You make a mistake, you learn a lesson, and you move on.
I’m so ready to watch you grow in both age and strength. I promise I’ll be there through it all.