Unapologetic for My Flaws and All
Page 27
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After graduation and the celebration, we all met at my house. Luke and I had news for our family and partners. Luke looked at me and said, “Bree, you first.” I looked at Luke, smiled, and said, “May I have everyone’s attention?” Chloe put her drink down and said with a little sadness, “Bree is about to reveal the college of her choice.” She walked up to me and said, “Bree, I am happy for you.” I looked at Chloe, “Thank you, but ugh, I haven’t told you yet.” Chloe said, “I know, but I want to say, whatever college you chose I am happy for you and I will always be here for you—distance cannot tear us apart.” I smiled and said, “You’re darn right because I am staying at Brubaker’s State University!”
Chloe screamed so loud as she ran and hopped into my arms. She almost fell but I wasn’t going to let her fall. T’eo said, as his eyes watered, “Are you serious?” I walked up to him and said, “Yes. I am. I am lucky and you are too. We are in this together, honey bun!” Chloe was jumping for joy! She couldn’t control herself. My parents were happy because I was going to be close to home, yet staying on campus. I need my freedom.”
Luke said, “Hello! I have an announcement too.” All eyes were on Luke. Luke said, “Well…” Summer groaned, “Oh my gosh, Luke, get to the point. Well… What?” Luke looked at Summer, laughed and said, “Gotta love this kid.” He looked at Chloe and said, “Guess what?” Chloe asked calmly, “What?” Luke said, “I am transferring to BSU!” Chloe screamed as she started to cry and said, “Are you two pulling my leg?” She covered her mouth as she walked over and hugged Luke, and asked, “Why?” Luke said, “I belong here with you and my family. I miss out on too much, and I don’t want to miss a thing.” Chloe said, “Bree, all the schools you got into. You worked hard to get in those schools.” I said, “These past couple of months have taught me, it’s not all about me. I want to be with the people I love the most, and you all are right here.” I said, “Group hug. We are all in this together!” We hugged each other and said, “We are all in this together!” I pulled Summer in, “Summer, you are a part of us and you are in this together too.” She smiled and said, “I love you, big sis!” She looked at Luke and said, “I love you, big bro. You and Bree are the best!” My parents were happy to know all of their children were at arm’s length. I looked over at my parents and the smile on their face was priceless. I am blessed to have family and friends who love and care about me. We are one big happy family who has our ups and downs, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
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I learned a lot and gave a lot. I know that I am loved and loving. I found my identity and that is… I am Breana Elizabeth Anderson. I am unapologetic for my flaws and all because I love me for me and nothing less.
Introduction for the book:
A Woman’s Love Is Never Good Enough.
Love.
What is love? It is the essence of the unknown and will overwhelm you if you do not realize you are giving too much of yourself.
Love is an intense emotion that will take a toll on you mentally, emotionally and physically in an unselfish, yet bittersweet way that develops into a deep affection; and sometimes, an unknown outcome.
Love is filled with a lot of sacrifices and resentment and is underestimated in so many ways. It is something of a Catch-22 and an overwhelming source of empowerment. You might feel as though love didn’t give you an answer to the questions that you asked. You’ve been waiting for days, even years; and perhaps you will never receive an answer at all. Maybe you’ve received an answer; however, it wasn’t what you expected. The question is—did you accept the answer, or are you still searching for the answer you desire?
Love is a strange word. It can be misleading and confusing. It can break you down with tender grace and mercy, while at the same time building you up to become a powerful force—and after that, you will never be the same.
The ripple effects of love are beautiful and peaceful, yet can also be disturbing and ruthless. At times, love takes advantage of its powers; it causes you to suffer from loving someone too much and finding yourself lost, without hope and giving too much of yourself to the point that you suffer because you’re neglecting yourself. It can cause you to lose faith. Its tremendous effect has a full impact as you find peace and happiness in your life.
Love will open your eyes to realize you are not the victim; instead you are victorious over the trials, battles, and challenges of life.
Love will show you that you do not have to search for it because it abides in you whole-heartedly. Love can be bittersweet but its grace is patience. Love is difficult but its mercy is tender. At times love might make you feel empty but you are never alone.
Love abounds against all odds. One thing about love is that it comes with many sacrifices. Its good intentions always reassure you that in order to love someone else, you must be willing to love yourself first.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Charlena Jackson, B.S., M.S., M.H.A. is a professor at a university in Georgia. She is a prolific writer and has published several books No Cross, No Crown: Trust God Through the Battle, Teachers Just Don’t Understand Bullying Hurts, I’m Speaking Up but You’re Not Listening, and, A Woman’s Love Is Never Good Enough—her positive, dedicated and determined attitude has encouraged many people to put up a good fight for justice and to be treated with respect. She is currently working on her Ph.D. in Healthcare Administration. Charlena is a much-loved inspirational speaker. She loves to read, roller skate, cycle, write, and travel.