Relationship: More than Romance
Oftentimes, when we use the term “relationships” during an explanation of our services, people are quick to share, “but I’m not dating anyone.” It’s understandable that romantic relationships are the first thought; there’s so much focus on flirting, dating, and finding that one special person. For people with disabilities, the process of applying a term that’s typically used for intimate partners to all meaningful interactions can be difficult to process. It can take time to understand the idea that even though a person may not have an intimate partner, they may still have very meaningful and supportive relationships.
I don’t think it’s wrong to build excitement over the idea of having romantic relationships, because they can be very fulfilling. However, we need to understand that there are many other types of relationships that can bring just as much joy to our lives, and one type of relationship is no better than another.
Friendships: whether this involves friends that we’ve had since childhood, new friends from our adulthood, or friends we’ve met online, these relationships are extremely valuable. Maintaining solid friendships helps us build skills in compromising, communicating, and practicing empathy. This is an opportunity to find out what types of positive characteristics are important to us, as well as the unhealthy traits we need to avoid. For those people who are interested in finding romantic relationships, friendships are the place to start! Building a romantic relationship takes time, and that’s why creating a friendship first is so important.
Family: some people build close relationships with their biological family members, and others feel they find that closeness with their “chosen family”. Either way, relationships with people we consider to be family can be some of the strongest that exist. This encompasses the support system that remains constant, and the people you know you can always count on. It’s important to understand that having these types of close relationships does not mean there will never be any disagreements or misunderstandings (differences in opinions will always occur, no matter who you’re dealing with). However, those tough moments will not get in the way of maintaining this relationship.
Self: the most important relationship of them all! While the concept of having a relationship with ourselves may sound silly, and is sometimes difficult to comprehend, we have to remember to care for ourselves the same way we would for anyone else in our lives. Speak to yourself with the same patience and understanding you would have for a friend or family member. Spend time doing things that you really enjoy. The idea that “you can’t care for others if you don’t care for yourself” could not be more true!
Jordann Mason, Community Outreach Director
Relationships, of all kinds, are meant to have a positive impact on our lives. This does require effort, understanding, and patience, but everyone can have happy and healthy connections.