No, it is not fair - but that's all right. Consider the alternatives.
You can stay in a deadlocked relationship if you choose, but then each
partner loses the potential benefits that can come from a healthier
and more supportive commitment. Or you can let the relationship dissolve
completely. This may be a viable option if the situation is intolerable,
abusive, or completely mismatched. However, if there is a chance that
the relationship can work, it is worth trying different approaches which
have not been considered in the past. After all, ending a relationship
before considering alternatives may represent an absence of fairness
and a potential source of regret in the future.
When considering the idea of fairness, remember that many things in
life are not fair. Illness, financial setbacks, and grievous losses
come to the best of people. Even if there were complete equality between
you and your partner, there is no assurance that the problems in your
relationship would be solved. Part of the human condition is to persist
even when circumstances are not ideal. Your partner may lack the ability
to provide equal input into solving the problems of your relationship.
This is something worthy of acceptance. It is not ideal, but it is reality.
Sometimes the strength and courage of one person is needed to compensate
for the shortcomings of another.
The real test of fairness is to question whether you are creating the
best life you can. In any relationship, we need to provide a balance,
not necessarily between the two partners, but on the dimension of balancing
your own needs against the needs of the relationship. The source of
your happiness lies within and is derived from your physical, emotional,
mental and spiritual strengths. Working on these factors within yourself
puts you into a firm position to attend to the demands of your relationship.
A relationship requires flexibility, effective communication, some
hard work, and a lot of good will. When we feel complete within, we
are in a strong position to create the conditions which can lead to
a healthy and thriving relationship. Perhaps there is some truth in
the old saying that it is only when we love ourselves that we can truly
love another.
I hope you find this article helpful!
Best wishes,
Donna Bellafiore
