I learned that I had to have direct conversations with my partner about what I expected and not assume he would do certain things because he is a man. I had so many preconceived notions about protection and provision that I had never troubled those ideas. I just accepted them as the norm. Having been challenged to discuss gender roles, I began to ask questions like, "Do you want to be a provider? What does providing for your family mean?" Or "I would like my man to be a protector of our family, if someone was trying to harm me or our family, what are you prepared to do?"

Love is a powerful, multifaceted emotion that can sometimes lead to hurt, even among those who care deeply for each other. Dr. Adrianne Pinkney delves into the complexities of love, explaining how fear, insecurities, and personal histories play significant roles in how people express affection and handle relationships. Learn how to navigate these challenges and foster a healthier, more understanding approach to love.

Understanding the role of the ego is pivotal in the quest for personal growth. The ego, often misunderstood and vilified, plays a significant part in how we perceive ourselves and interact with the world. By recognizing that the ego can either shield us from truth or propel us towards superficial validations, we can begin to transcend its limitations. Here’s an exploration of how staying unconscious serves the ego and the liberating power of embracing consciousness.

At B. Well, love is not just a feeling; it's our guiding principle. Inspired by Dr. Gary Chapman's "The Five Love Languages," I've explored how these languages shape our interactions and relationships beyond the romantic realm. Whether affirming words, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, or physical touch, understanding and speaking your primary love language—and recognizing others'—can profoundly impact how we connect and care for one another. Dive into the world of love languages and discover how this understanding can foster deeper connections in every area of your life.

Valentine's Day often highlights our romantic relationships, but it's also a perfect time to reflect on the love we offer ourselves. Inspired by the teachings of bell hooks, I encourage you to look inward and ask if you're providing yourself with the same level of acceptance and love that you seek from others. Her poignant reminder that "You can never love anybody if you are unable to love yourself" is a powerful call to embrace self-love not just today but every day.

This Thanksgiving, amidst the joy of perfect mac and cheese and the magic of "Home Alone" played by the NC Symphony, I reflected on our roles within our families. Traditionally cast in the role of caretaker from a young age, I have consciously shifted towards a role that allows me to enjoy being a daughter, sister, and aunt on my terms. This holiday season marks a significant transition in how I interact with my family, moving away from exhausting obligations towards mutual respect and personal happiness.

As hurricane season unfolds, it’s a potent reminder of the storms we encounter, from the literal to the symbolic. Storms, while disruptive, are influential teachers. They bring communities together, change our behaviors, test our foundations, and teach us about resilience. Understanding the lessons storms teach can help us navigate the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges, transforming turmoil into opportunities for growth and deeper connection.

During a tumultuous period in my life, I surrounded myself with friends who mirrored my messy behaviors—from enabling to dishonesty. Yet, as I embarked on a journey of personal growth, the dynamics of these friendships began to change. I gravitated toward those who inspired and supported my quest for a better self, and gradually, my circle evolved. This transition was about finding new friends, transforming existing relationships, and discovering communities that fostered my development, like my Sister Circle and Al-Anon.