This week (and I'm telling you, each week one of our learning’s circuits back, these are the tools that don't give out), someone asked me how the relationship is going. 

I told her about the time that you motivated me to lean in to who I am; to lean in to my empowered self, my sexy self, my assertive self, my playful self.

You said, with bubbliness, excitement, and conviction (paraphrasing) "Do you, and maybe he'll really like it." And sure enough, since I've embraced more and more of myself, my walls (which I view more as giant, green protective petals) have come down. I've blossomed before his eyes and he has stated how happy he is to see me glow again.

It started with building that security within myself, and blueprinting boundaries of respect for myself, and boundaries for others to honor. It started with reclaiming my power. Once I felt safe in myself, I felt strong enough to stand my ground against any perceived and real opposition.

We've been so good for months now. And it really takes two, and and really takes
(1) embodying the fullness of self (2) sharing it openly with my romantic partner, trusting that I will be ok no matter the outcome, and (another Jess lesson) expecting the best outcome when communicating.