"Sugar is in the eye of the beholder. Which is to say, every relationship works differently, has different expectations, and asks different things of its participants. You have the power to define the relationship for yourself. This isn't an episode of The Maury Povich Show; no one is going to unilaterally declare you the father. I have two suggestions. First, talk with your girlfriend about how your relationship works and how you'd like it to work."
"Use I statements, but don't be afraid to bring up how you felt about her response to the computer conversation. Ask her what her wants and expectations are. This could be clarifying for you both. Communication is going to help you both. Try to think of concrete ways that you'd like to be shown love and would like to show it."
A 70-year-old partner lives with a 42-year-old artist and has financially supported her career, including building a studio and providing a monthly allowance. The artist recently reacted angrily when denied a computer purchase, revealing entitlement concerns. The partner considers tapering financial support to test the relationship's authenticity. The recommended response is to communicate openly: use I-statements, express feelings about the computer incident, and ask about her wants and expectations. Identify concrete ways to show and receive love. Expect difficult conversations and bruised feelings, and be honest about fears and hopes.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]