“Fear is a mind conqueror … Pain is only temporary.” This singular phrase pushed me through the long days and nights in college spent enduring a grueling fraternity pledge process (shout out to the Nupes). It became a daily devotional for my life; but as soon as I crossed, I no longer needed it—or so I thought…

I thought I’d give you a brief reprieve from your hectic work day by supplying a Fly Joke of the Day. I haven’t shared one in a while, so I figured I’d provide a quick laugh while your boss has his/her back turned. We’ll get back to love and relationships shortly. Here’s one I just ran across.

It’s morning, and the memories of last night haven’t come into focus quite yet. The ceiling is the first thing that I see as my eyes open, and it still appears to be the way that I left it—but something seems different … I’m not alone.

This weekend finds me digging into the music crates to share some of my favorite audio love selections from years past. So enjoy the nostalgic sounds of songs that have always had a special way of conjuring up some of love’s most poignant sentiments.

Dear Fly Guy, I’ve gotten myself trapped between a rock and a hard place. I think I have fallen in love with my best friend of 5 years. We recently reconnected after 2 years of not talking over something childish. Since then, we have grown, matured, and for the first time, I see him in a new light.

My five-year-old cousin Mara asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I didn’t know. Well after she indignantly walked away when I couldn’t come up with a good answer, I began to think about her question in earnest. So what does The Fly Guy want for Christmas? Well to be perfectly honest with you, I already have what matters to me the most…You

I told her she was beautiful. She said she was having a bad hair day. I told her she was one of the smartest people I know. She said I needed to get out more. I told her there was no other woman for me. She said “I bet you tell all the women that.” Note: Now normally, I would have just walked away at this point.

After a long day of pushing myself creatively, I decided to step away from the computer and head to one of my favorite lounges to have a drink. So my cousin and I drove over, but to our surprise, the place was unusually packed for a Monday night. Normally this would have upset me—since I don’t like being around a lot of people when I’m trying to relax –but tonight was different.

Dear Fly Guy, a friend recently told me about your comments on the “Single Ladies” Beyonce video. I read what you wrote and I felt like “Wow, so this is how a man thinks!” I in turn wanted some advice.

Part of me envies the ability of others who express themselves on levels that I have yet to achieve. That’s why the “Love Quotable” installments are so important to me, as they inspire me to search even deeper within to form a better understanding of what love really means. Enjoy this week’s selections.