What is your definition of a healthy relationship?
I grew up extremely religious so many if not all of my thoughts and viewpoints have been heavily shaped by religion and the Bible. I also grew up with parents who, at first, appeared to be on the up and up and have a tremendous knowledge and understanding of spiritual and non spiritual things but later proved opposite of what they were teaching me and my siblings. As I got older I started seeing large cracks in the connections between “good and bad.” This would be based off of my parents behaviors as well as people is school, later my coworkers and friends and family, etc. So questions came to my mind and that made me super honest and forthcoming. It made me question relationships between people, God and other things. Basically, if I think it, it will be formed into a question or a statement that I’m looking for answers to or more information. It has always been based off the knowledge and information I was given as a child about what constitutes right and wrong. So I would like to know what you all consider to be “healthy” in a healthy relationship? What does it look like, feel like? Is it simply defined as what someone says or is it a combination of speech and actions over the course of time? How much space should I give myself and others in order to consider being or having that healthy relationship?
@TheSunParadox33
I do not know who can answer your question .... relationships are as varied as there are people ....
i think many people try to have a healthy relationships but every thing had ups and downs... depends on the nature of the relationship as well.
Friendships/ romantic relationships all are a give and take situations ........when in healthy situations we support each other and do not get in the way of their growth and changes and give space when needed and they do not impede our growth.
we are aware that each situation can be either a lesson or a blessing.... the later tends to be shorter interactions.... look for the good and grow see the best and although you will see bad as well. both will shape who you are.
Thank you for that perspective!
@TheSunParadox33
It sounds like you've been on a journey of questioning and introspection, especially regarding your upbringing and the values instilled in you. It's natural to reassess these beliefs as you navigate through life's experiences and encounter inconsistencies.
Healthy relationships are indeed multifaceted. They encompass both words and actions that demonstrate respect, trust, empathy, and genuine care over time. A healthy relationship feels supportive, where both parties feel valued and understood. It involves open communication, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or reprisal.
Giving yourself and others space is crucial in nurturing healthy relationships. It allows for individual growth, respects boundaries, and fosters independence within the relationship. Healthy relationships thrive on mutual respect and understanding that each person has their own needs, aspirations, and journey.
Remember, it's okay to question and seek understanding. Your journey of introspection and honesty is a testament to your desire for clarity and growth. Trust in your instincts and experiences as you navigate what feels right for you in relationships.
With empathy and hope,
LittleEggHarbor
@TheSunParadox33
Well to me a healthy relationship is
- Two people having/starting one once they really got to know each other
- Take everything slow and not rush into anything
- Meet each other half way on things
- Support and understand each other
- Respect and appreciate each other
- Trust each other and accept each other for who you are
- Be authentic with each other
- Don’t just say you love/care for each other. Show each other that you do too.
- Help one another if one of you asks for help or one of you sees the other needs help and you offer it and if they accept help them. If not, respect that no matter how you feel about it and say lmk if you change your mind and need or want help from me. Then respectfully walk away.
- Engage in any activities your partner wants to do sometimes but it doesn’t need to all the time as you have your own life too. However the same goes for them when it comes to them engaging in any activities you wanna do
- Be kind to each other
- (Try to) be mindful of each other’s feelings and everything else that makes a human being human.
- Be encouraging if they need it.
That’s all I can think of right now. I’ll add more in another comment if anything else comes to mind
You know that's a good question. I grew up going to church but as I got older abd having bone cancer losing my leg from hip socket and all. At 13 having a ir finding a girl / woman that would take or have me was all I worried about. Well I believe in God and God has saved my life and has helped me through many hard times but totally neglected me as far as love. 3 wives 2 cheaters one crazy B-------- I always thought my parents installed good morals I gave everything I had to my marriages gave too much I guess I was honest loyal affectionate nice shared everything gave them time fir them selves I had time for myself I worked hard every day helped with kids helped cook clean etc. I believe I treating people the way I expect to be treated. So idk buddy
I'm an Eastern Orthodox Christian, so you faith as well as expirence informs my views. A good relationship is built around a central reciprocal commitment to always embrace eachother in our good and bad qualities with acceptance and tenderness as we strive together towards each other's growth and development. It has at its heart a raw, authentic, unshielded unveiling of ourselves to each other and we are free and safe to bare our true selves. It is at heart a childish friendship that is given to play and humor. And in commitment to eachother and overlooking eachother's offenses we show forth the the glory of the forgiving, dying to self for one another love of God. A mature relationship is always manifested in immaturity. Be one another's friend first.
