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The Art of Trust: Lessons From a 20-Year Journey
In response to Dancing Elephants September Relationship Prompt
Trust is the golden thread that binds two hearts with love and friendship. Over two decades in my relationship — a 10-year courtship sprinkled with a brief interlude, followed by a decade of marriage — I have learned that trust was not handed over on day one but was grown, nurtured, and reinforced each day.
The Balance of Unity and Freedom
One might assume that being together for two decades means we are joined at the hip. While it is true that my wife and I share many aspects of our lives — from our morning runs to our evening Netflix binges — we have discovered that the secret to our enduring trust lies in a delicate balance.
We give each other ample space. Although we spend most of our time together, it’s essential to allow each other some freedom so that both partners can pursue their interests.
Giving one another the space to be themselves has been essential for our relationship. Trust is all we have and goes a long way if you ask me!
The Evolution of Trust
Like a fine wine, trust takes time to mature. It has not been smooth sailing for us on this journey. In the…