Communication, Compassion and Compromise

Over the course of my 32 years, I have come to realize that there are three things in this world that can make or break a relationship.  Any type of relationship.

Communication, compassion and compromise.

Let's start with communication.  This word carries a lot of weight.  Not once in your life has communication ever not been important.  Regardless of your relationship with that person.  Whether it be a friend, lover, acquaintance, significant other, co-worker, son, cousin or whomever you insert here.  Think about it.  Words, tone of conversation, body language, it all boils down to how you communicate to that other person.  Notice I said "to".  Not at.  Once we get into communicating "at" someone, it can shut that person down or turn them off.  Communication is a two way street and must be understood or at the least comprehended by both parties.  Communicating "to" someone rather than "at" is really an art within itself.  All it takes is patience and practice.

Compassion.  This word is rarely used anymore.  In today's western society, we rarely take the time to have compassion for someone else.  We get busy in our own lives and sometimes forget to notice the people around you and how they feel.  You must be able to set yourself in their shoes and really open your mind to what is going on in that person's life.  This doesn't mean that you have to feel sorry for someone.  Doesn't mean that you have to let your feelings go in order to make someone feel wanted or even happy.  All it means is to take into consideration the other person's emotions before proceeding. 

Compromise.  No matter the circumstance, you should be able to give more than you receive. Always.  Does this mean that you should open your heart and continue to get run over and over?  No.  It means that life isn't always going to be 50/50.  Usually in any relationship, one person gives more than the other.  Tends to work out that way doesn't it?  However, when used for good and not evil, it will balance out. 

Life can get the best of us if we let it.  Practicing the above, together, can build stronger relationships and a better all around persona.  It takes a lot of time, practice and learning.   

If one fails, they all will fail.  

CCG