It means step away from your individual positions and dive in under the iceberg, find the needs and wants there and common ground (in Emily’s answer a solutions that strengthens, builds and love each other more, or just: growing old together). Really listen to each other to understand. From there think about options and find one you can both feel good about. It really works, there are always options, but yes, it takes work and effort. It’s like love itself: a verb.

Hanne from Communication Wise

Such a powerful insight, Pat. I think we limit the depth and strength of our relationships by categorizing them as work or family or friend or personal relationships. I love the challenge you give us – to make all our relationships what we want them to be, regardless of how we have come into one another’s life. I hope I never say, “oh, she is one of my work friends.”

Thanks, Barb!