THIS is the real meaning of a relationship

Many people seem rather confused as to the definition of a relationship.

No, it isn't when two soulmates come together. It isn't about having another person "complete" your life. Such definitions are far too simplistic, ignoring the hard truth that -- as with everything else -- relationships take work and have their downsides.

A true relationship is one between two imperfect people who refuse to give up on one another.

I would go so far as to say that you can't call it a relationship until both people have been through ups and downs together. In reality, you don't know a person as well as you think you might until you've seen them in a trying situation. At the first sign of trouble, some people bail cravenly -- without warning.

And relationships aren't all about hugs, kisses, and butterflies. That may be so in the very beginning, during the so-called honeymoon stage, but eventually the relationship matures and both people have to face the music.

Things you once found cute in one another become pet peeves. Your flaws come into sharp focus. You also have to deal with the real-life stuff that gets put on the back burner during the early stages, from health issues to money troubles to problems at work.

If both people are willing to navigate these choppy waters together, then there's something truly special there. If, despite each other's shortcomings, they want to remain in the relationship over the long haul, then there's no question they share a strong bond.

Notice how I used the word "both." If only one person invests the time and energy necessary to keep the relationship afloat, it will sink in no time. Aside from a lack of trust or communication, nothing jeopardizes relationships to a greater degree than indifference.

Relationships are about the good and the bad -- the highs and the lows. If a relationship seems like a cakewalk, it's either still in the honeymoon stage or they're doing something wrong.

In the end, it's the hardships you overcome together that truly make the relationship -- and both of you individually -- more resilient.

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