The ideal relationship for most people is to be attached at the hip....Well at least that was my idea of a perfect relationship.

First of all there's no such thing as a perfect relationship, or friendship, or family or any other relationship between two humans.

Second of all being attached at the hip is not a sure way to become close or stay close. Physical closeness to a person is not equivalent to spiritual closeness to a person....My last relationship taught me that.

We were together 24/7 not because we had such a strong spiritual connection, but because we were addicted to the physical stimulation we gave each other. But physical stimulation can only last for so long. Although that relationship was only 5 months long, it taught me more than any other relationship I've ever been in. It taught me 3 main valuable lessons about love.

Love is space. You have to give each other room to grow as individuals. I am my own person and you are your own person. We do not need to become Siamese twins in order to be close. Although your relationship with that person should be important to them, you have to understand that the relationship they have with themselves is more important.

Love is freedom. That means that being with you should never make them feel like they can't unapologetically be themselves. You should never try to fix them or make them conform to who you think they should be.

And most importantly Love is patience. When you see things that your significant other could improve on, do not lecture them or talk down to them. Just give them a gentle nudge. In a kind and non-judgmental way let them know that what they're doing could keep them from reaching their full potential. Give them time to grow. Don't expect the change to happen overnight.

Relationships can be beautiful if there is a good amount of space and respect. A relationship should be a union where two help each other grow, not hold each other hostage.