Boo'd Up or the Boot: Summer 2019

Article submitted to Blk Girl Culture by Marlena Rodrigues.

Originally published May 2, 2019

Summer of 2019 is around the corner and the question stands: are you going to be single this summer or boo’d up?

The Inkwell (1994)

Whether it be romance movies or Twitter #relationshipgoals everyone knows the overarching ideal that summer is the time for short-lived romances. Summer is a time for beach trips, darties, traveling, etc. and of course, a bit of summer lovin’. Navigating a summer boo can be exciting but nonetheless – messy.

In terms of pros, a fling has MANY. All of the fun summer activities you have in mind come to fruition when there is someone to share the experience with. No strings attached means that there are no hard feelings or serious commitment. There is also a thrill of something that feels forbidden making the passion and lust even greater.

This is not to say that summer flings cannot be REALLY problematic.

In order to successfully have a summer fling there are things to consider. If a partner is willing to have something so temporary there is chance that… not only one person received the golden ticket. Unfortunately, some people cannot handle not being the only one, similarly to navigating feelings. A romantic relationship of this sort only works when there is communication and self-awareness. If one KNOWS they “catch feelings” quickly, then they have no business being in a fling. That is completely okay, they are not everyone’s cup of tea. There is a level of maturity that comes alongside all romantic relationships because without it people get hurt. Intuition drives us, make sure to follow it when a relationship is harmful to one or their energy.

When all else fails… give ‘em the boot.

But, at the end of the day relationships are not the end all and be all. Do not feel pressured to be in a relationship or to force one because if something is meant to happen it will. Do not be so blinded as to believe something is for you when it is not. Now repeat after me: It is OKAY to be single.

Taking time to work on self-care never hurt anyone. It can be easy to frown upon the single life, but it is a period of time to love oneself and all the good and bad that comes with. A time to lift spirits and have bonding time with loved ones.

So, whether you are single or boo’d up this summer, make sure to just have fun. What are your thoughts on summer flings?

Peace and power,

Mar