the ultimate goal

The metaphoric imagery in this article by Jennifer Jones is definitely powerful and confronting, but I agree with it. For me this is the ultimate goal of intimate relationships in life.

I kind of feel that the various essential areas of my life: myself, my original family, my chosen family (ie: my partner), career, friends... are all like flowerpots in a row that will flourish or wilt and die depending on how much water and care I give them. It can't be taken for granted that any of them can survive without care. It feels like the only way that is possible is through self-awareness and being pro-active about life. To me, happiness is not the euphoria of joy (the opposite extreme to pain & anguish)... it is the peace and deep feeling of contentment that provides the foundation for all other emotions to glide over the top of without eroding what is underneath.

xx