Friendship and relationship advice
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Love & appreciation
“Being taken for granted is an unpleasant but sincere form of praise. Ironically, the more reliable you are, and the less you complain, the more likely you are to be taken for granted.” ~Gretchen Rubin, The Happiness Project While I agree with some aspects of today’s quote, I have to take issue with it. Let’s just say that I can think of better forms of “praise” than being taken for granted. Whether we’re talking about romantic, platonic, or familial love, I believe most people want to feel special or appreciated. At the very least, human beings want to be seen and validated (which might explain our cultural addiction to social…
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Self-love
“Talk to yourself like you would talk to someone you love.” ~Brene Brown Sociologist and best-selling author Brene Brown often reminds her readers that healthy relationships begin with self-love and self-respect. While it might sound counterintuitive, it makes perfect sense. When you feel loved, confident, and secure, you have a deep reservoir of love for others. When you come from a place of abundance, you have plenty to give. Healthy self-love shouldn’t be confused with egotism or self-absorption. Self-love is the ability to accept your own humanity (flaws and quirks included) with gratitude and humility. Self-love is a willingness to keeping growing while you support the growth of others. Meanwhile,…
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The heart of the matter
“To love well is the task in all meaningful relationships, not just romantic bonds.” ~bell hooks As we cozy up to the middle of winter, our thoughts turn to love. And while February is known as the month for celebrating romance, I think it’s fitting to include friendship and family relationships in the love fest. As medical experts remind us, having an active social life (in person) is a major key to longevity and mental health. Throughout this month, I’ll be including quotes and reflections on the joys and challenges of opening our hearts to others — and how love can make our world a better place. ~CL
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Trusted friends
“Some people go to priests; others to poetry; I to my friends.” ~Virginia Woolf English author Virginia Woolf often celebrated the gift of friendship in her books and diaries. She knew how precious it is to have a friend or two who will listen to our fears, hopes, and dreams. As Woolf observed, that level of trust doesn’t happen overnight. It’s often rooted in years of shared history and experience — and thrives in the rich soil of mutual support. If you’re feeling down and blue, a good talk with a trusted friend can be the best antidote. I’m grateful for the friendships I lean on when the light goes…
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The gift of your attention
“Nothing you can give will ever be more appreciated than your sincere, focused attention—your full presence. Truly being with someone, and listening without a clock and without anticipation of the next event, is the ultimate compliment.” ~Marc Chernoff, Marc & Angel Hack Life At this point in December, I’m usually preoccupied with holiday stress and anxiety. As Christmas draws closer, I wake up with a chorus of elves reciting a mile-long “to-do” list in my head: When are you going to finish your Christmas cards? What will you bring to the Christmas Eve party? What else do you need for the Christmas morning brunch you’re hosting? Have you overlooked anyone…
