

Why We Accept the Love We Think We Deserve
Janelle Newell | 9/3/2026 The relationships you see in life set an example for how you navigate your own relationships. We learn how to love before we ever experience it ourselves. We watch it. We absorb it. We normalize it. Seeing healthy relationships means you're more likely to have positive dynamics. But seeing toxic, abusive relationships, or being neglected by your parents and friends can lead you to stay in toxic relationships longer and go back to someone who hurts yo


Surviving the “Nice Guy”
Janelle Newell | August 22, 2026 The invalidated child becomes the adult who stays even when they've been hurt. When you don't know any better, you never think you can find it. This was the case for the young girl. Ugly, destested little brown-noser, committed to being the best because it was the only way people would recognize her value. He was well-liked and naive, but they both sought control in ways that would hurt her. She wanted a connection to make her feel like she co


Reflections on Love Island USA: A Deep Dive into Relationships and Self-Worth
Janelle Newell | July 14, 2026 Disclaimer: This post includes discussions of bullying, abuse, racism, and suicide. Proceed with caution. There's a reason I don't watch Love Island UK. The men chosen often seem racist, showing little interest in the black women contestants. Dark-skinned women, in particular, are often kept on the show as friends until a white girl comes along who they actually want. It’s disheartening. Plus, the lack of natural hair representation is glaring.














