Life can be beautiful yet unpredictable, filled with many lessons, some on repeat, until you fully comprehend what God is teaching you. Many attempt life by checking off that societal checklist; college, marriage, house, and kids. When those boxes don’t get checked, we’re left feeling unfulfilled in accordance to society’s expectations. Others approach life like novelists; they write their own story. understanding that each experience we have is preparing us for the next chapter of our lives. The first few chapters of my novel ( life) have been filled with a mini-series as a military brat, followed by a huge health scare and then amazing adventures in Spain. Those parts of my life were also filled with romance, love, marriage, and heartbreak. My current chapter focuses on love.

Love comes in so many forms. Love of self, family, friends, and, of course, romantic love. Self-love goes beyond spa days and shopping sprees. It requires self-reflection and analyzing the people or things helping or hindering you. Self-love requires self-discipline to achieve your personal goals. Familial love is the foundation of our self-esteem, how we form friendships, and how we experience romantic love. Familial love is about the choices we make and who we allow into our lives. We’ve all heard the phrase “Blood is thicker than water.” However, the full saying is “the blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb,” Meaning that just because someone is blood-related doesn’t mean we have to accept their disrespect. It means we can choose the bonds that we develop and nurture. And being able to choose is a luxury.

Luxury is defined as exclusivity, comfort, or a high price tag and often is associated with images of name-brand handbags, expensive cars, jewelry, or exclusive vacation spots. However, Luxury is all about perspective and what you choose to prioritize. Personally, luxury is getting a good night’s sleep on quality sheets. It is going to pilates two or three times a week and prioritizing my health. Luxury is elevating every day and surrounding myself with beautiful people and things. At the end of the day, it is choosing a life of love and luxury.