Perfection In Any Relationship

"A perfect marriage is one in which 'I'm sorry' is said just often enough." - Mignon McLaughlin, writer

I don't know if I would define any relationship as perfect. I think all relationships ebb and flow. There's never a "perfect" set of circumstances to line up appropriately. The reason is that each person's perception is different and unique. So one person's definition of "perfect" will not always match another person's definition. That's the beauty of  living as a human being - our uniqueness.

As far as saying "I'm sorry" goes, I've learned that saying it too often can have its consequences.  After awhile, it doesn't mean anything anymore. I was in the habit of saying it way too often. I seemed to follow a pattern of behaving badly, feeling remorseful following the bad behavior, and then saying I was sorry. Then I would act badly again and the cycle would continue. My friends and family didn't believe me anymore. They knew that I wasn't seriously owning up to my bad behavior. I was saying the words but the sincerity was not there.

Now, the phrase I use is "I was wrong" and it has helped me tremendously. I don't care to admit my mistakes too often. So, I am much more conscious of my actions these days. If I pause before I act, consider the possible consequences of "letting loose", and reflect first, then I usually can act appropriately. That, of course, eliminates the need for an apology or an admission of being wrong. It's much easier on my ego too. I don't beat myself up as much so I can love me for me. It seems to be working out better in so many ways.

I definitely understand the quote above. I believe, for me, that there are no "perfect" relationships. But there are relationships that I have today that are the best I've ever had. My friends and family and I are not always perfect. We don't always do things the "right" way. But we love each other unconditionally anyway. That's the "perfect" combination in my mind.