I like to think that I’m a genuine person, so it’s deeply moving when people say they think that of me.

Yet, most days, I’m incapable of thinking that highly of myself. Even though I can acknowledge my authenticity, most days, I feel as though I am incapable of showing who I am—nothing withheld—to anyone. I tend to put myself into digestible boxes as to not make anyone think less of me. I project an incomplete version of who I am, then get upset when I feel constrained by the perception I’ve created.

I used to think I had moved on from chasing validation, but it only evolved as my life progresses. It took me a long time to pursue the things that I wanted. To speak towards things that move me. Now, it’s much easier. I just wish it didn’t take so long for me. And I wish that self-esteem was more easily transferable to other ventures in my life.

With each new endeavor, I have to learn how to believe in myself. It’s always easier to be the version of yourself who garners the most attention or the most love. But the most love, and the kind of love you receive from being who you truly are, are two very different things.

What’s for me is for me, and I’m complete on my own. This is my only chance at life’s journey before it all permanently fades to oblivion. And it’s my honest goodbye to searching for love. I’ve got it right here inside of me. The end of searching for anything other than self-love and family. Pouring my everything into all that I do and giving love openly. Life’s beauty lies in the actions you take purely because you’re moved to do so, no matter how many people are watching. When nobody is.

I believe that we are all intrinsically creative. Some of us choose to build our lives around that knowingness and go further with it. We are all here to deliver a message and tell our story. My art will evolve as my story evolves, and I am grateful to be able to share it with the world.

Everything else is open to interpretation.