I really hate the double standard that seems to be a fundamental component of the male/female relationship dynamic. And sure, the double standard cuts both ways, I get that. But it seems to me that as people, we should all strive to think outside the box, to think critically about what we say and do and whether things are equitable.

I want to feel valued. I want to feel that the level of importance and meaning I assign to my loved ones is reciprocal.

But I don't. I feel peripheral, like interacting with me at all is a chore. And I am self centered enough to think that it shouldn't be that way...that I'm worth something.