Of Love & Obligation

by: k. jefferson

A friend and I had this discussion a while back. I was in this dilemma of the heart, torn within myself, and there never seemed to be any resolution. Perhaps one of you reading this can offer up words.

Allow me to paint a scenario, if you will.

There is someone in your life who's now become a very close friend over the years. They're considerate, thoughtful, mannerable, always there for you in times of need, you can communicate with them, etc. They are all the things you'd desire in a potential partner.

However...and there's always that "however". You expected it, didn't you? lol... However, in your heart of hearts, you know there is something missing. That spark. That mutual chemistry. That feeling of  "this is the one...and no matter what challenges we have to go through to make it work, I'm willing to sacrifice for the sake of creating something beautiful with him/her."

And no matter how much you'd like for your close friend to fill that position, you know deep down in the long run, it wouldn't fit. . . because you know yourself and what truly makes you happy and keeps you engaged/involved better than anyone else.

They've expressed they want more in the past...i.e. exclusivity and possibly a relationship. You've expressed in a matter of words that you're just not there with them. When your needs don't quite match up, it's certainly not a solid foundation to base any relationship on. You back away, because being around them feels too painful at times, knowing that you don't want what they want. You don't want to lead them on.

Still there's a part of you that feels almost obligated to be with this person because of all the wonderful things about them. A part of you that feels like they've done everything to deserve you. They've put in major work. They've earned a right to be in your life. And you want them there...just not necessarily in that capacity. You've thought about it several times. Even battled yourself internally about it. . . but something just doesn't add up, and deep down you know it...but you feel like you may be cheating yourself out of something special if you let the moment pass you by.

So the question that begs to be anwered is this... In situations such as these, what do you do? Do you wait and perhaps someday platonic love will grow into romantic love (for lack of a better term)? Do you risk trying out a relationship with them to see what happens, possibly damaging your friendship if it doesn't turn out right in the future? Do you back away altogether and let go of a wonderful, beautifully spirited friend who you absolutely want in your life to some degree? By wanting to hold on to our friendship, am I indirectly blocking the way for the right person to come into both of our lives?

Why does it have to be so confusing?

Signed,
The Student of Life...and the Queen of Hearts.