Love and Relationship

Introduction

As a child, I was captivated by fantasies of love.

• I clung to the fairytale notion that "To say "I love you" takes only 3 seconds, to explain it takes 3 hours, but a lifetime to prove it."

However, as I matured, hearing numerous divorces around me shattered this idealistic view.

• For better or worse, marriage is built on shared happiness, while divorce stems from the belief that separation is preferable, albeit painful.

The Truth

Many relationships ignite with the thrill of discovering another's mystery, but quickly fade as the mundane routine of daily life sets in.

• Unveiling the mysteries of others is akin to discovering an unknown truth - it is exciting, and we feel we are moving closer to them.
• We crave constant interaction, but when this excitement becomes routine, the dopamine rush subsides.
• We revert to our original selves, focusing more on our own needs.

However, love is not merely a fleeting feeling; it is a conscious choice. Like any meaningful relationship, it demands that we prioritize our partner's well-being, requiring consistent effort, nurturing and self-discipline to thrive.

• Raised in different family environments and instilled with distinct values and beliefs, couples are two unique individuals.
• Building a successful relationship requires a key process of understanding and accepting each other for who they are.
• As my friend wisely says, everyone carries a string of problems, and choosing to love someone entails accepting these complexities as well. We agree to navigate challenges and support each other through difficulties. Hence, it is better to choose someone who sparks your interest, not just someone to avoid loneliness.
• Open and honest communication is essential for a healthy relationship. Unspoken doubts and unresolved issues can slowly erode trust, ultimately leading to a breakdown in the relationship. Remember, trust is the foundation of any strong connection.
• Being in a relationship often involves a degree of compromise, such as adjusting to a shared lifestyle and making compromises in your personal time and social life.
• It also requires a willingness to consider your partner's well-being, needs and feelings.

Frequently, even when we know a relationship needs to end, many people cling on, collecting evidence of unfulfilled promises until they have enough justifications (disappointments) to leave with no regrets.

• However, once the decision is made, there is no turning back.
• Where possible, end a relationship with respect and dignity.

Summary

While some believe all encounters in life are fated, if a relationship feels worth fighting for, fight for it.

• Life already presents enough uncontrollable challenges.
• We should not add unnecessary regrets to the mix by letting opportunities slip away.

Not all seemingly chance encounters are coincidental.

• Meeting someone by chance can feel like searching for a single grain of sand on a vast beach - the chances may seem slim.
• However, these encounters can sometimes be the result of deliberate effort to seek opportunities for interaction, such as asking for help with a small task or celebrating a shared event.
• We are all adults, capable of living independently.

Remember, relationships are not one-sided decisions.

• If you encounter unresponsive silence, gently accept it and move on.
• For every advancement, there are often countermeasures that can widen the gap.
• On the other hand, embrace self-care, explore new passions, and open yourself to possibilities.