What do you seek for in a relationship?
This is a question I was asked in conversation, and I answered as best I could. I thought the question to be personal, but then I realized it was worth sharing.
“You ask difficult questions: Not that the questions are difficult, but giving honest, complete answers is difficult.”
Trust, Honesty, Love and Affection, Mutual Respect, Communication.
I have to be able to feel trust in the relationship, and this starts with open and honest communication. I hate lies; even white lies. Trust is given – it cannot be earned; and once lost, is impossible to earn back.
I want to not just feel love, but also give love. To me, this is giving selflessly – giving everything for the one I love.
Respecting each other’s opinions, even though they may be different from my own. Listening and understanding,
Then there are the things that should be held dear by both partners in a relationship:
Shared Values and Goals, Support and Encouragement, Compatibility and Understanding, Commitment and Loyalty, Laughter.
Relationships thrive on shared values and common goals. When partners have significantly different views, it can lead to misunderstandings and disagreements on fundamental life decisions.
Being there for each other through life’s ups and downs is crucial. A supportive partner helps build resilience and confidence. Motivating and encouraging each other. Sharing interests. Being faithful and loyal. Sharing moments of joy and laughter.
Unequally Yoked
The concept of being “unequally yoked” comes from the Bible and refers to relationships, particularly in the context of faith. The primary verse addressing this issue is found in 2 Corinthians 6:14 (NIV): “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?”
In biblical times, a yoke was a wooden beam used to join two animals, such as oxen, to work together in plowing fields. If the animals were mismatched in size, strength, or temperament, they would not work well together, leading to inefficiency and strain. Similarly, when the Bible speaks of being unequally yoked, it refers to the potential difficulties and conflicts that can arise in relationships where there is a significant difference in faith or core beliefs.
Conclusion:
So these are my thoughts on relationships. You will notice that I did not mentioned intimacy. I believe so many other aspects of a relationship must be fulfilled first, otherwise it’s just animal sex. Intimacy changes everything.