Valentine’s Day can be difficult as it emphasizes the “special someone” in your life. There are set expectations of roses, chocolates, and candle-lit dinners but here are some ways to reclaim the day and make it about the most special someone in your life—you. 

Ask people what they see in an abstract piece of art, and chances are they won’t say the same thing. Every individual shape is a unique interpretation, and this different experience for every viewer is a communication channel between the artist's ideas and the viewer’s thoughts.

I am six years old, staring at the mirror, knowing there’s a difference between pretty and ugly. I know who’s “pretty” and who’s "ugly;” even my six year old self, learning to write e's and j's, to paint rainbows with my fingers, knew the difference.

In honor of Black History Month, we are applauding some of the incredible members of the Black community who spread positivity one Instagram post at a time. Their messages of hope and love are inspirational to all people, regardless of skin color. 

I study languages. I grew up speaking English and Korean at home, and now I’m fluent in Modern Standard Arabic with the ultimate goal of teaching Arabic to native English speakers. World peace requires a bridge between languages to be formed so that people can understand each other. 

There is, however, one language I do not and will never understand. It’s when people comment on other peoples bodies and physical appearances.

We’re over a week into the new year and you've likely encountered a plethora of diet ads telling you that happiness can only be achieved through weight loss. I'm calling BS on that idea. 

So often, the prospect of the new year is poisoned by notions of creating a “new and improved” you, as if the person you were on December 31st at 11:59pm was not worthy. Well, you are, and everyone has different desires for the new year, as we should!

Italians love food. It may sound like a stereotype but trust me, it’s the truth. 

I’d know. I was born and raised in Italy, after all. 

Of course, I cannot speak for all the sixty-million plus people who live on the boot-shaped peninsula kicking the waves of the Mediterranean Sea. But I can speak for all I have experienced growing up in the land where pizza is gourmet food and where mealtimes are almost sacred. 

How many times have we heard variations of the motto “New Year, New Me,” as we reflect on the past year and plan for the year ahead? Admittedly, I am guilty of this mindset too! Each year, I tell myself I’ll save money, meditate when anxious, and spend less time on social media. While all of these are positive and productive resolutions, when I was in the throes of my eating disorder, there was only one (albeit empty) resolution I made each year: to lose weight.

The notion of ringing in the new year is often associated with starting over and beginning from square one. But, what if instead of starting over, we focus on moving forward and keeping up the fight? For those who are struggling with recovery, the new year can serve as a reminder of how far we have come and remind us of the life we choose to fight for. On January 1st, celebrate the beginning of 2018, but don’t forget to celebrate you!