All I've Wanted All I've Needed

by A.E. Valdez

As men of color, owning our own successful and thriving businesses is a big fucking deal.

She’s a lot like the ocean, you know. Unpredictable and beautiful.

“Anytime you need something Harlow – just ask. Your health, in every aspect, is more important than anything.”

“Nah, she looks at you like you’re… everything,”

I can appreciate what someone has done for me, but that doesn’t mean I owe them something in return. I’m learning to have the courage to change my mind, whether it be about proposals or jobs – if they aren’t serving me – I can move on without permission.

Life unfolds in interesting ways.

I resolve that it isn’t my job to make them like me. Either they will or they

won’t, and there isn’t anything I can do about it.

The only thing I can do right now is focus on myself. I can’t make someone want to be with me and I won’t.

We’ve gotta do what’s best for us, Harls. No one else fucking will.”