We just got through a week of potential catastrophes in DC –first the earthquake and then hurricane Irene. Especially if you are in a dating relationship, was your partner there for you? Ask yourself this relationship question: what do you need from another person in an emergency situation to feel safe and secure?
We also had bad storms this winter that led to power outages. Our basic needs of food and shelter need to be attended to. What would you expect of your partner in times like these? This really tests the strength of your relationship. Can you count on this person?
In my book, “Get It Right This Time- How to Find and Keep Your Ideal Romantic Relationship” I discuss my “Expressions of Love”. One in particular is to be able to depend on someone in an emergency. Actually, if you have a chance to see how someone reacts in an emergency situation, (health or safety), then you are actually fortunate.
In one situation, I remember I was dating a man (not exclusively) and we were on a group ski trip together in French Quebec, Canada. I was hoping we would get closer on this trip. We were in a van with a dozen other people driving up the ski mountain to lodge. Another car crossed over and came into our lane. Our van swerved to avoid the car and ran off the road. There was an abrupt impact and my knees were resting on the seat in front of me. On the impact, my knees got squished. I was in pain.
The man I had dated took it upon himself to be the one to communicate in French to the authorities and the emergency personnel. He was not the leader of the trip. Actually, the leader was Canadian and spoke French. That is not what I minded. I was sitting in the cold in need of ice for my knees. He did not once come by and check on me. Another guy on the trip made sure I was okay and that I got what I needed. At that time, I realized he was not the kind of guy I could depend on in my life. At that point, I decided NOT to date him anymore. I actually stayed clear of him during the trip.
Ask yourself these relationship questions: “Is the person you are dating the kind of person you can depend on in case of an emergency? Are they a caring and helpful person?” Life has many times when you have to pull together and be there for one another.
So, how do you answer this relationship question: what do you need from someone to feel like they can be the kind of person you can depend on?