Every single time I read an interview with Selena Gomez, I want to give her a huge hug. Despite being insanely famous and probably being told by everyone around her to shield her feelings a bit more, the former Disney star remains refreshingly honest and vulnerable. In the upcoming issue of V magazine, she didn't hold back from talking about you-know-who with her Spring Breakers costar, James Franco, and what she has to say will break your heart.
Selena, 22, admitted that she was only 18 when she and Justin Bieber started dating and that he was her first love. She then gave us some insight into why the two were so perfect for one another and what she learned from the experience:
The older I get, I'm guarding certain things more. After being put through the scrutiny, I understand what it is. When you're young and you're being told so many different things ... it almost felt like all we had was each other, like the world was against us, in a way. It was really weird but it was incredible. I would never take it back in a million years. You live and you learn, you know?
Selena and the Biebs, 20, had a lot of ups and downs over the three or four years in which they were together, including quite a few break-up-get-back-together episodes. Which is totally normal when you're so young, but it did seem for awhile there like the singer was way too fragile to be toyed with by a dude who seemed to be surrounded by different women at all times.
After spending two weeks in rehab—and Selena's rep confirmed it wasn't for substance abuse—Selena says she spent a lot of time just hanging out at her new home by herself. She admits she has "some scars," possibly Justin-related emotional ones, but seems so incredibly mature and clear-headed as she explains that she thinks this year is going to be incredible.
Although her positive attitude probably has more to do with her own healthy state of mind, it might also have a teeny bit to do with dating singer DJ Zedd, though she's quick to say she's not looking for anything serious right now.
More from The Stir: Selena Gomez Explains Love for Justin Bieber in Her Latest Music Video
I just love Selena and feel like she's a sweet, wonderful role model for young women. She wears her heart on her sleeve and is brave enough to admit when she has been hurt. Even more importantly, she takes steps for herself, such as entering rehab, when she feels her mental health has been compromised.
Bieber is lucky he has a classy ex who praises him in public and remembers him for the good times.
What do you think about Selena's thoughts on Justin Bieber and their relationship?
Image via vmagazine.com