Building the Bond in your Relationship

A bond (relationship wise) is when two people have a connection. Being attracted to each other and sharing common values and interests brought the two of you together as a couple, but the bond has not been set completely. Besides the fact that you have love and care between you, you also need to see whether or not the two of you are friends. Is it possible to be friends? Absolutely! As a matter of fact, it is a must if the two of you are going to build a lasting bond.

Having a strong longing and passion for another is important, but is not enough fuel to keep the bond running. With friendship, your relationship will remain having that strength under all kinds of circumstances. There will be times, for example, when you as a couple are not living in your most passionate times. This is natural and does not mean there is no longer love or desire. As your relationship deepens, you will go through many experiences and stages that may put your romance and frequent hot sex aside for a while. This is where friendship comes in and why it is so important. You should be there for each other and understand your partner's situations and concerns. Just take a look at your friends. See what makes your friendship with them so great. You then need to see if your partner has those same similarities or exact (sticking up for you when you need the back up for instance) qualities. Another point to keep in mind is keeping yourself aware of what behavior you would not except from a friend. You should definitely not accept those behaviors from your mate (like standing you up all the time) either.

It is not easy to put our friends and lovers in the same comparison because we are in love with our partners, and therefore will be more patient with them than we would with our friends. You can easily blind yourself due to the love you feel for that person and not even realize when he or she is not being a good friend and partner to you. How can you tell? A true friendship is basically the same as the true qualities that define real love. The difference is, we are in love and have a deep desire for our mates, with commitment and a goal of building a future, and perhaps even getting married and making a family together. The list below will help you see if your lover is a friend to you as well.

• You can talk to and confide in each other about anything.

• Your partner is there for you when you need to talk to someone.

• Being able to always rely on each other when one is counted on.

• Having a permanent shoulder to cry on when we need it.

• Having many things in common.

• Accepting one another for who we are.

• Listening to us and considering our opinions important.

• Be able to accept an apology and not stay angry - forgive and learn from it.

• Do not feel guilty for having high expectations from your lover either.

People often feel like they should be more lenient and understanding when it comes to their lovers. Even though it is important to keep an understanding and forgiving attitude (to avoid misunderstandings and arguments), you should never let things always slide so always communicate clearly with your partner. After all, you invest most of your emotions and time into your partner, so always remember that you are entitled to receive the same respect and behavior you would give. In order for a relationship to work, talk things out and communicate openly, as you would to a close friend. It's imperative.