My boyfriend and I have been dating for over a year now and we have quickly learned that we believe in different values and have different beliefs. Normally, some would say to run from this relationship, it is not healthy and it will just end it heartache. I am here to end that argument and explain why I am in the best relationship I could possibly be in.
First off, we always challenge each other. I do not like to debate with other people but it comes easily when I am with my boyfriend. We share our beliefs and the other always listens, this is especially important in our relationship because we have learned that talking over each other will lead to greater conflict. Challenging each other keeps the relationship fresh and we constantly have something to talk about on long car rides or even over text.
Second, I always learn something new from him. Even if I do not agree with his opinion, he still manages to teach me something new and sometimes that is enough to change my mind on a topic. I also learn more about him as a person and what kinds of beliefs and values he holds and how he was raised to think this way. We grow together by putting our differences aside and realizing that everyone is entitled to their own opinion and that is OK.
Lastly, we are never bored with each other. Conversation comes easily to us because we respect each other and we remember at the end of the day we love each other. With that being said, we have gotten into our fair share of arguments, but we have always come out stronger and more knowledgeable in the end.
I do not see my relationship as unhealthy in any way, in fact, I see myself in a relationship that could last a very long time. I think it is important to stand up for what you believe in, but also give others the chance to stand up themselves. Debating with my boyfriend has not only made me wiser, but it has made me more confident and not as afraid to speak my mind about important topics.