image – taming of the shrew
Gwyneth Paltrow did get a hammering in the media for her “conscious uncoupling” statement… like it or not, they were talked about.
On the other hand, our discussion on this subject lead me to thoughts on the qualities and elements that do make a relationship great and endurable.
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Spending time with one person over a long period of time, despite the joy, is marked with challenges.
It would be naive of us to think otherwise… and to embark on a serious commitment without this understanding would be foolish. Long term partnerships require work… endless compromise and patience… but the rewards are there.
The rewards are the greatest gift of all.
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I have always believed that what holds many long standing relationships together is history… a shared history.
Time together means memories are created, battles are fought and won. A life together is built, explored and developed… experiences are shared. Commonality bonds us together…
History binds us through the big and the small… Without consciously thinking about it, when we choose a long term partner, we are writing our history with that person.
Our lives will be intertwined forever… for however long we are together or apart.
A relationship cannot function on the past alone… for a relationship is a living, breathing and constantly changing momentum…
As we grow, we change, as does our relationship… but our shared experience, our friends, our family … memories of great happiness… can oftentimes give us the strength to forge on when the difficulties seem insurmountable.
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Your comments of last week about relationships were instilled with great, great wisdom.
Many of you shared the same sentiments when it came to the qualities needed to sustain a long term relationship.
In summary… ten lines… ten I will remember… ten, that must surely signify a deep and profound love.
Trust, loyalty and perseverance…
Honesty and consideration for each other.
Compassion and courtesy…
Commitment and communication.
Patience and understanding… be open minded and flexible in your thoughts.
Choose your battles…
Be simpatico with your goals and dreams…
Kindness… don’t take each other for granted.
Respect and acceptance…
Friendship and laughter.
Did we miss any? What other qualities do you believe contributes to a long and happy relationship? xv
