Feelings Should Never Be Up for Debate
It’s important to recognize that in a nurturing relationship, your feelings should never be up for debate. If something causes you discomfort, that feeling is significant. Your partner's responsibility is not to argue about your emotions or dismiss them; instead, they should listen, empathize, and strive to improve in the future.
True love isn't about always being right; it’s about kindness, empathy, and learning how to support each other in ways that make both partners feel respected and valued. If your partner focuses solely on defending their actions or downplaying your feelings, or ignores them all together, it can leave you feeling diminished, unheard, and isolated, even in each other's presence. This is not how a loving relationship should function.
In a genuine, caring partnership, your partner will be eager to understand what troubles you because your happiness is important to them. They will listen with respect and aim to grow together with you. Mistakes will happen, but the key difference is that they will take responsibility for their actions. They will acknowledge when they've caused you pain and will make an effort to avoid repeating the same mistakes. In a loving relationship, ensuring that both individuals feel safe and understood is far more crucial than winning an argument.
Keep in mind that, despite what Pat Benatar said, love is not a battlefield; it should be a refuge where both partners feel valued and supported. A good partner does not manipulate you into thinking your feelings are unimportant; they stand with you, ready to face discomfort and work together to strengthen your bond.
If you find yourself in a relationship where your partner listens to you, appreciates your emotions, and actively tries to prevent future hurt, cherish that connection. That’s what defines a healthy relationship. If that’s not the case, it may be time to evaluate whether you are being treated the way you truly deserve. You are deserving of love that honors your heart, someone who values your feelings rather than making you doubt their significance. Remember, love should always be a comforting place to return to.
Prioritizing Self-Care
Stop sacrificing your own well-being to force a relationship that isn’t meant to thrive. You cannot compel someone to care for you, remain loyal, or become the partner you need. Sometimes, the person you desire the most is actually the one who is best for you to let go of. It's crucial to understand that certain experiences are meant to happen, but not all are destined to last. Some people enter your life for a time but are not meant to stay.
Don’t lose your sense of self by trying to mend what is inherently broken. You cannot receive the love you seek from someone who is not ready to give it. While it might be hard to see now, your future will eventually provide clarity on why things didn’t work out. Trust in that process. Do not put your happiness on pause for someone who isn’t fully committing to you. Some chapters must conclude without a clear resolution. Focus on nurturing yourself and recognizing your worth.
