Ashley Needles

Finally dating a man who is childfree. Before this I'd only dated one other who was childfree but that relationship didn't last long. I now get why the childfree community is all about only dating other childfree people. I feel truly accepted by my significant other. I get the whole being on the same page thing. It isn't just being child free though, we're both non religious, highly into psychology and self development, and good with money. However the childfree aspect specifically has brought to light many areas of fulfillment my previous relationships were missing. I feel secure in the relationship at a level I never have. Once my husband left for another woman because he knocked her up... I didn't feel like I was enough. In this relationship, I feel powerful. I don't question my choices, i.e. wondering how much I should sacrifice to make my partner happy and what compromises I should make. I feel accepted as a woman. He doesn't question if I have maternal...

I've been a victim. I am a victor. The course of my life is determined by who I choose to be each day. I do not let the circumstances of the present or past dictate my future or how I feel about myself. I choose to believe in what is beautiful. I choose to believe the best of the world and those I meet. Greatness comes from seemingly small consistent daily actions. Happiness is a sacred strength of spirit. It requires both a sword and a shield. Happiness is gained through what we give to this world without expectation of return. Happiness is protected by protecting ourselves from those who would destroy it, destroy us, or deny us our power to have it; we must cut them from our lives. We must shield our happiness by focusing on those who do good to us and others. Gratitude sustains internal joy. Entitlement destroys all that is good. Expectations of others are daggers we stab into our hearts. Unconditional acceptance of ourselves in every moment heals...