Recognizing sacrifices

What are the indicators you look for in your partners to prove that they love you? Do you count the gifts or the times they say "I love you?" Or the instances they have posted sweet messages on Facebook? There are more than a thousand ways to show our love for a person but the most common, I think, of which we tend to disregard are the SACRIFICES.

It may be unnoticed or less appreciated, but in reality, it is a culture embedded in each and everyone of us. It just varies depending on the level of willingness to sacrifice. It is an everyday thing; just like when we stay up late every night talking to our partners instead of sleeping; when we could've eaten every food that has our favorite shrimp but we wouldn't because we know they are allergic; when the guys could've been driving home but they have to bring their partners to their homes first even if that is farther away than their places; when we could've bought that nice pair of shoes but we couldn't because our partner's birthday is coming up. Some people gave up their jobs abroad to be with their loved ones here or the other way around - they chose to be parted from their families to go abroad just to provide more for them. I've also heard so many stories of a person who wanted to get married at the age of 27 but waited until 35 because his or her partner still has family obligations to attend to. All of these are some examples of the sacrificial things we do out of love. Whether the impact is little or big, we are still putting their needs first than ours. Of course many would still argue that a person shouldn't lose hold of his self while being in a relationship. But for me, really, true love is all about compromising and it can only be done by giving up "some things" and making way for theirs. And it's not losing ones' sense of self entirely if you are just being mature enough to be responsible for other's emotions and doing things that will make them happy, right?

I guess my point here is, oftentimes we forget to see the sacrifices that our partners make for us. We fail to appreciate and to give thanks and instead we demand for MORE. During these times, we should pause, reflect and ask ourselves, "What are the efforts that he has done or is currently doing?", "Is it enough?", "Or has he given it is his best shot?" And if the answer is yes, probably what we can give in return is a little acknowledgement. Show them some love! Besides, it is totally not an easy task to always deal with our inner craziness.

You might ask what is my status? Honestly, I am barely there. But I am trying everyday. I may be stubborn and a brat, but when I am alone and I have the luxury of time to just breathe and think of my personal situation, I do realize how much Martin has put up with all of my moods and baggage. And how much he has been willing to repeat it all over again because that is how much he values and loves me. In fact, his too-many-to-mention sacrifices inspired me to write this post. I am thankful beyond reasonable doubt for the existence of this man!

So during your quiet solitude, look around you, reflect and don't forget to give some loving sacrifices in return. ❤️