Sometimes we really believe that we strive for a loving relationship, when actually, we try to get somebody else to conform to OUR IDEA of a loving relationship. We cannot do their striving, or their growing. We cannot decide what they are ready for. We cannot even decide what a loving relationship looks like for them.
It is wonderful to persevere, align with love, and create a relationship that reflects YOU. Live your dream! But don’t do the dreaming for somebody else … and then try to get them to work at living it. Let go of your notion of what is right for somebody else.
And continue to revisit what’s right for you. If you have to push too hard or cling too tightly, maybe it’s not for you. Love is work! It’s responsible and persistent work; but it feels like being true to yourself, not trying to squeeze into a pair of jeans, a party, or a relationship that doesn’t fit.
Not sure if you’re truly loving your partner or pushing YOUR idea of a loving relationship? You can’t be responsible for how your partner feels, but how he feels can be telling. Does she feel respected OR disrespected by you? Does he feel nurtured OR nagged by you? Does she feel exalted OR belittled by you?