Relationship Reflection

There are so many types of relationships, like family, friendships, lovers, influential, and detrimental, yes even unhealthy to name a few and many of these types overlap each other in many ways bringing to light terms like, "I love to hate you." I believe relationships are best when each party is getting something out of it, thats human nature...and human development. We form relationships to get the things we need emotionally, physically, and mentally to survive in the world, whether thats putting into the relationship or pulling out of the relationship to meet those needs.

My father has and continues to be the most influential relationship I maintain. He laid the foundation and sculpted the potential of what I have  become and I trust and respect him above all others. I am my father's daughter. He taught me that in any relationship, your word is your bond, essentially you are bound by what you say. Lies, truths, honesty, promises all effect the relations you have with others in how you act on them once they've been said and made.

My fiance, the love of my life. Love is a relationship that requires balance, acceptance, and tolerance. I don't have to change who I love, merely accept the one I love for who they are. We balance each other and tolerate the baggage in the closet.

I have no biological children of my own, but have been a part time mom type figure in their lives for the last four years. As a child of divorce I recognize many of the difficulties the children and I have faced and may face in the future. I am not their mother, however when they are with me I am very mindful of my actions because of the nature of our relationship and the negativity I continually face within it. The trust for them is building.

My dog Zeus. He is  my friend to the end. He does not judge, is always happy to see me, looks for me when I leave the room, pretends to understand what I am talking about, does tricks, trains me as much as I train him, and never ever tells any of my secrets no matter how crazy he might think I am. For all that all I have to do is throw down some food and water, play, let him sit in my lap, and scratch his head. I think this is the best example of an unconditional relationship as I really don't have to do all that much considering what I get out of it.

My sister and me have always been close. We have been through many things that have brought us closer and torn us apart. This relationship is racked full of emotional ups, downs, and disappointments, though I would be there in a heartbeat if she needed me in a life threatening situation.

This is my little brother. This relationship is neither biological or legal. That is just how it has always been. Our relationship is the best of the best....totally reciprocal. We can agree to disagree, give emotional support without fear of getting hurt, keep secrets for each other, and give advice...we call that an opinion or getting council. 

This is my second family. They are the closest non-family family I have that lives near by. For many years now we have had family dinners and get togethers in order maintain the ideal of family. I will treasure and care for these guys as long as I am breathing. It is jokingly replacing my dysfunctional family with a dysfunctional family that works.