Reciprocity in Relationships

It is often stated from a position of retrospective sagacity that effective communication is integral to the strength and salubriousness of a relationship. Though there is apparent veracity to the necessity of clearly articulating values, needs, boundaries, problems, etc., there exists something even more foundational to the initial manifestation and potential fecundity of a newly established relationship—reciprocity. Reciprocity prognosticates the future of a pair, decides the trajectory of their relations, and, without the experience of equality between the two, dictates that nothing can proceed any further. Essentially, when two people spend time together, there exists an objective reality simultaneously experienced, however, the perception, interpretation, and overall impression of events can be profoundly dissonant. In unfortunate, inequitable cases, the clangorous pangs of incipient affection are met with the inauspicious knell of silent insouciance. This incongruity in personal investment and interest in the relationship can manifest quite painfully for both individuals; for the one who feels less, it becomes sorrowful to be unable to provide the attention and emotion that they know the other desires. To the other, it is inordinately devastating to bear the prodigious weight of care and affection with the desperate cognizance that it cannot be matched. The lack of reciprocity therefore poisons possibility and forms an insuperable barrier to the solidification of a relationship that transcends the bounds of personal control or direction. Thus, both partners experience heartache from failed expectations and wasted efforts. It truly is a beautiful rarity when perfect reciprocity exists.