What it takes

What it takes

Number one is and always will be commitment.
Commitment to communicate
even, no, especially when it's hard and unclear how
Commitment to each other
even, no, especially when surprises arise and views are challenged
Commitment to family
even, no, especially when it feels like every step is judged by those watching from outside

Number two is openness
Openness to experience
to new ideas
to chances and opportunities
to be willing to change views and values
if doing so strengthens commitment.

Number three is compliments over complaints
build and cherish
don't crush and disrespect

Number four is physical affection
kiss, cuddle, hug
Hold hands
sleep with bodies pressed together

Number five is approach conflict as natural
no life is ever without conflict
when conflict arises, as it will
seek to understand other points of view
remain calm, give space
never forget communication and commitment and family
the goal is not to never fight or have dissonance
the goal is to work through problems
not push them aside
dwell on them
or cast blame

Number six is be willing to let go
be willing to accept imperfection
be willing to accept reality is not fantasy
and find peace in what is

remember life is too short to be taken seriously
remember to play
remember to be creative
remember to take time for separate space and separate needs
remember solitude is not meant to offend
remember to give and receive acceptance

And, lastly, most importantly
Love.
Love the early stages of tingles, excitment and passion
Love the in between stages of growth, change and challenge
Love the later stages of comfort, companionship and routine
Love love.

There is no 'happily ever after' but there is 'commitment to what it takes.'