"Casual"

On heavy musical rotation: Bright Eyes' "Lover I Don't Have to Love," Dresden Dolls' "Coin-Operated Boy" and "Girl Anachronism," Damien Rice's "Volcano," and Rufus Wainwright's "Instant Pleasure."

Remembering: That it's about ME ME ME ME ME. I'm allowed to be selfish. In fact, I'm entitled to it.

Realizing: That I need to get out of my damn head so much and that time, more than anything, helps me deal. A solid night's sleep and a fulfilling dinner don't do any harm either. I need to stop over-fucking-reacting to every little thing.

Also realizing: I'm doing this because it's convenient and makes me feel good about myself. When it ceases being both of those things, I will stop. It's as simple as that.

And FURTHERMORE: I'm awesome.

So there.

With much thanks to: Lisa Nicole, Renee, and Sarah.