by Henry Makow Ph.D. – September 10, 2012

I got 637,000,000 links just now when I googled “relationships.” 

The first one, from Psychology Today, begins: “For most people, romantic relationships are the most meaningful element in their lives.”

This is our PRIMARY brainwashing, delivered by Hollywood.  The plot is always:  find love, have sex, live happily ever after. “Love” is the religion. Sex is the holy sacrament. 

We are programmed to be co-dependent. Every song is a variation of “you are my sunshine” and “I can’t live without you!” 

When I consider the energy I expended in this quest for “meaning”, I feel betrayed. Especially considering how stupid, deceitful and vain some of the women were. 

When I recall my mental habit of seeing women as the “key” to my happiness and masculine development- I feel both duped and stupid.

I expect many people have found “meaningful relationships.”  Finally, even I derive considerable satisfaction from my marriage. 

But “most meaningful element in my life”?

No, I wouldn’t jeopardize it with such expectations.

The problem isn’t with my “relationship.”  Romantic relationships were not designed to be “the most meaningful element in our lives.”  

Romance should be a small but important part of our lives. Maybe 25% for men; 50% for women. (Yes, I believe women should have more invested in love.)

WHAT ELSE IS THERE?

Continues at source …