[Maru]

Originally Posted by Redway

And what would you say you’re looking for in a relationship? Is marriage always the end-sight (not saying that’s what you’re saying, but nonetheless man’s just curious, innit)?

I am married and have been with the same person for 20 years so that would probably answer your main question...

In general, I think of relationships as something that should never be treated in a trivial way or "wasted". That's true for friendships also. When someone takes the time to put their energy into you, it means something. Doubly so when it's intimate because it's a lot more energy involved than just hello/goodbye. Even if the person ends up being a giant dumpster fire, they've read into your life and contributed in some way into the understanding of your own heart and so also where you are heading. So I think of people who enter my life as people who play a part in my personal growth, so that kind of governs the types of connections I would seek. That said, my emotional track record with romantic connections was about the 6 month mark I would've gotten some kind of clue as to where it could go anywhere beyond that. So while that does color my long-term expectations quite a bit, it doesn't mean you can't have fun with that person or explore a connection. Anyway, I don't think marriage is something I could ever force from others.

(Sorry it took a while to answer. It's August weather now and so I'm struggling more with sleep)