In this conclusion of a two-part series and when we left off in Part 1, we were just getting into the brass tacks of what real love looks like.
Today, we’re going to finish off the balance of the qualities of what real love looks like but I want to serve up a warning; If you haven’t read Part 1 of this series (https://matchmakerforhire.comwhat-real-love-looks-like-part-one-of-a-two-part-post/ ), you need to do that first. The complete picture always makes better sense. Let’s dive in….
Companionship- Is it Love or Companionship? It sure helps to have *some* common interests and often when people first fall in love, they bond over that shared love of certain activities and mutual interests. Even if they are different from yours, you can start trying them, showing interest in them, asking to share your partner in doing them. If the other party really interested in you, he/she will automatically show an equal interest in your hobbies and interests. Here begins the companionship! The way you listen also tells of the way you care for the other party. You are listening not out of an interest in the subject itself but out of concern for the other party. If we all apply it, I guarantee our dating experiences will be completely different.
Respect –In relationships, respect may be even more crucial than love. It is useful, I think, to compare and contrast parent-child relationships with partner to partner relationships. In both of these, respect is absolutely essential for it to work. When a love interest expresses an idea, or asks a question, take it seriously and learn to let go of unsolicited advice. Listen up! Love without respect is dangerous; it can crush the other person, sometimes literally.
Openness – Is openness important in your relationships? I mean, being open with your partner 100% of the time. No secrets, no lies, nothing. In my personal opinion, everyone is entitled to have something to keep for themselves. And I don’t think the most intimate, private thoughts are necessary to share unless they’re relevant to your partner or your relationship. There are certain things you share, other thoughts you don’t. So let me ask, why do most of us babble out every thought, every little thing they do and everything anyone says to them? How boring! That’s the kind of stuff you keep for Facebook! I don’t think that a one-size-fits all rule like “always be open” makes much sense. Building a relationship and growing trust, while each of you are growing individually, requires more than simplistic slogans.
“Real love may seem less exciting than our shiny fantasies, but it is a million times more worthwhile”