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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UCD chapter.

You were my first love, and we grew up together for five years. I experienced so many new firsts and exciting moments in life with you by my side, and the moments that we shared were magical for a hopeless romantic like myself. I was all about you, and regardless of how young we were, I wanted you to be with one for me — the one who I would spend the rest of my years with. But you left, and now I have to say goodbye.

Image source: Pixabay

Life happens really quickly. I had all these plans aligned for us, all these things we were supposed to do together in the next few months. And in the blink of an eye, they vanished. One day you were here, and then suddenly, you weren’t anymore. I really do miss you — the ache that filled my heart and the tears that streamed down my face are proof of that.

But I’m doing better now, and because of the time that I’ve had to myself lately, I’ve gotten clarity. I’m slowly learning that everything happens for a reason and that despite how happy I was to be your girlfriend, maybe you were right — maybe we are better off without one another.

Being single after being in a long-term relationship is an experience, to say the least. At first, it’s terrifying. When you first broke up with me, I felt so lost and scared. I was so used to having you by my side and I almost didn’t know how to go back out into the world alone. I missed having a routine with another person.

Image source: makunin, Pixabay

But it’s also exciting and it’s liberating. I have so much time in the world, and I’ve been able to use it to focus on hobbies that I enjoy and develop my skill sets. I’ve been watching new movies and reading new books, and I’m dedicating a lot more time to school than ever before. I’ve been able to devote time to taking care of myself, and I’ve been able to gain a new sense of self-love.

These past few years, I spent so much time trying to take care of you and loving you that, along the way, I forgot to take care of myself.

To my first love, we grew up and unfortunately, we fell apart, too. But the memories that we shared will always be in my heart, and I am grateful for all the lessons that you taught me. You are an amazing person and I hope that you find happiness and success in your future endeavors.

Thank you for everything.

Rose is a second-year Communication major at the University of California, Davis. She loves Harry Potter, Disneyland, and spends most of her time either binge-watching Netflix shows or napping. After graduating, she hopes to work in the Public Relations or Advertising field.