taking it in

How do you keep a relationship working?

theangrytherapist:

Imagine that your relationship is an engine. And just because you have one doesn’t mean it’s going anywhere. So in order for this engine to move, the pistons need to be pumping. Four pistons of a relationship, trust, communication, chemistry, and connection. Trust is not a given. It has to…

Definitely applies to romantic relationships but, in a way, also family relationships, friendships, etc.. And as Angry always says, “Get a life” — cultivate yourself, your own experiences so that you have something to share, to give… This all requires work, which requires discipline.  My mom has taught me about discipline early on in life, but I never quite understood it.  Discipline sounded restrictive and boring.  Yet, recently, through some structure in my daily schedule, conversations and prayers, I am beginning to realize that through discipline, I experience freedom, creativity, hope, peace and happiness like never before.  All’s still a work in progress, of course.