30 Lessons For My Unborn Son
Lesson #2: Relationships
Be honest, brutally honest. That is what’s going to maintain relationships.
Lauryn Hill
Dear Son,
This lesson about relationships is unfortunately one that is tough for me to deliver. It’s one of the areas in my life where I have failed miserably.
Developing relationships with others for friendship has always come easy for me.
However, creating and establishing successful romantic relationships has eluded me so far my entire life.
As I’m writing this letter, I am working to improve the relationship with your mother. I hope that it works out for the good and we stay together for a long time.
Let me share with you what I’ve learned in my lifetime about these relationships and give you lessons on how to avoid the same mistakes that I’ve made.
- Relationships are difficult
No matter how hard you think they are, multiply that by 10. The amount of work required to make a relationship successful should not be taken lightly.
They take patience, communication, honesty, empathy, understanding, love, etc.
Even relationships that have these characteristics are not guaranteed to succeed.
You still have to be right for each other.
The only way to find this out is by going through the process. It can be frustrating and difficult.
At times, you might feel that the road to finding true love is too hard.
Don’t ever give up on love because it’s always worth it.
Assumptions are the termites of relationships.
Henry Winkler
2. Communication is the key
Relationships require you to talk. First, you have to be willing to share your thoughts and feelings.
This can be difficult for many men. But the more you practice it, the more natural it will become.
Don’t let pride get in the way of being honest with yourself.
When communicating with your partner, always be honest.
Even when you feel like the truth may hurt her feelings.
You will hear many times how different men and women are. Believe it, it’s the truth.
For this reason, the relationship must involve open communication.
The result is a couple that understands each other and who isn’t afraid to be transparent.
3. Utilize mentors in your life
There will be many people in your life whom you can look to for relationship advice. Look to the men you know who are in successful relationships.
Your uncles and grandfather are a few men who have experienced happy and healthy relationships.
Do not hesitate to reach out and ask questions.
These men in your life will be able to share their experiences and give you advice on how to navigate the difficulties that relationships bring.
I have not utilized this advice myself and might be one of the many reasons my previous relationships failed.
You deserve to live a happy and successful life and finding your soulmate to share this life with is priceless.
Just remember that finding your true love might take work.
You only have one life and have to live it in a way that makes you happy.
Never sacrifice your happiness for others.
Here is an old cliche, but I believe it holds.
When you fall in love, you will know it!
I hope that you can find a happy and loving relationship.
Love you Son,
Dad
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