You know that life is trying to teach you something when a problem is repeating itself, right? The thing that seems to come up over and over again with me is that you can't look to other people to give you the love you're so desperate for; you have to love yourself, and your self-love has to be enough on its own.

Is that what emotional independence is? Either way, it's something I really, really wish I didn't have to do. Regular independence, sure, fine, bring it on, but I still feel like I need someone who will give me a hug at the end of the day. The universe is saying, "No, Frances. You have to be able to walk it by yourself."