Relations...

HELLO GUMDROPS! Normally, I would never use a social media site as a platform to discuss relationships even on my own blog. Merely a preference but I ordinarily don't like to discuss these matters en masse. BUT for today I will make an exception to the rule. No rule is ever truly absolute, right? Nonetheless, I felt the need to address this issue because it seems to be a constant theme amongst those that surround me. So here goes nothing. First and foremost, relationships are work. Any relationship requires some degree of work and dedication, whether it’s a relationship between or among family, friends, and coworkers or with you and your significant other. No relationship is perfect; there will be a collective number of "good" and "bad" times. But it’s up to the individuals within that relationship to stick it through even when hardships arise (they will). It’s up to those people within that relationship to decide whether or not the other is worth...I guess you can say for the lack of a better word, the hassle. Let's get a bit more specific. A lot of people tend to discuss the relationship with their spouse with a broad spectrum of people. The problem with that is everyone has their own individual bias so by opening the doors to discussion, you are inviting bias opinions. Now, I'm not saying you can't vent out and ask friends for advice when needed, but do understand that their opinions aren't necessarily objective. And at the end of the day there are only two people (typically) in this kind of relationship. Although it is nice to get an outsiders opinion because, they can help put things into perspective for you. See things that you fail to realize because of emotional components. However, do note that no one is going to understand your partner the way you do. I find that in a lot of relationships people lack communication. From personal experiences I find that guys (the ones that I've encountered) find it hard to express themselves (verbally). More often than not they need to be coerced into saying what they truly feel. I guess that's part of the male ego? Not wanting to look emotional or vulnerable? I don't know. You decide. It’s my biggest pet peeve. To me if WE are together, why would you care to seem vulnerable? To me it shouldn't matter. I wouldn't look at it as a sign of weakness yet a merit of strength. It takes courage to be who you are and be honest about how you feel. I couldn't help but respect it. For pride and love is like hot oil and water. It doesn't mix. At times we are all forced to let our guards down. Just for a bit more clarification I do not expect guys to necessarily cry on a whim or nitpick. But on the flip side I wouldn't want to be with a guy that was super macho. There must be a balance. Every relationship is different; create your own "rules" as to what the median is. It doesn't have to reflect one of another relationship. Now, I have no expertise when it comes to relationships. I am no relationship guru. Even though I do feel like I've had relations or encounters with a series of different males. Each different yet, all seem to share some form of common ground. I'm sure guys feel the same about females or whichever your sexual preference is. Hmm I hope it doesn’t seem as if I’m trying to group guys into some macro category. I’m not too big on labels. We all have our own stories and no two are the same so sorry if I’m being a bit too general. I’m just saying…. Anyhow, papers to write and books to read. Enjoy! XoXXoXXo