What's Missing?

Some would say that the key to a healthy, happy, successful relationship is love, but love comes with a mousy twin. It is not nearly as loud and in your face, but just as important as love none the less. Her name is compassion. Compassion is what is missing when most relationships fail. Simply put, the failure comes from an inability to respect, appreciate, or acknowledge the complexity of your partner's experience. Compassion will allow you to express empathy. It helps you really see from your partner's perspective without judgement. Compassion elevates the passion in your love and raises your gratitude for loving and being loved in return. It is most unfortunate that we as a species are desensitized over time. Our appreciation, adoration, and admiration for what is "ours" declines. The things we once held so dear to us lose their sparkle and shine, and they become dull and tarnished in our eyes. Our job as our partner's partner is to make the conscious effort to maintain the sparkle. In other words, you are the polish. Practicing compassion lifts your relationship to a deeper level. It is more intense, your bond is closer, and your energy is in sync. You truly become one. This is achieved when you repeatedly remind yourself of why you wanted so badly to be with them in the first place. There is no doubt the traits that drew you to them are still there. Remind yourself of what they are. Lastly, always see your partner through compassionate eyes you strengthen the bond you already have, and truly experience what it means to love them.