Domestic Violence 1 | Page 19

Choice of action for a unhealthy teen relationship:

-Communication is key, arguing with the other person in the relationship will not benefit you or your partner.

-Stay calm and be sure to say only what you mean when you talk to your partner. Drama should be the last thing that is found in the relationship.

-Try to rely on each other for answers instead of your own understanding.

-Maturity creates stronger bonds. Stay away from people who do not have the same maturity level, because arguments will arise.

-Don’t try to control the other person in your relationship. Control is normally found in people when they feel a lack of control in some other part of their life.

-Avoid relationships which are only based on sexual appearance.

-Remember, if you have to, end the relationship. Staying in a unhealthy relationship is not beneficial to anyone.

To help you remember this, I’m going to compare your relationship to a ship sailing on the open sea. Remember that being in a relationship is not all smooth sailing. There are waves to rock the boat, and sometimes you need to point yourselves in a new direction. It’s important that you don’t jump ship the first time that you feel a bump along the way. Keep calm, and if you need a map to help guide you, don’t be afraid to use one.

Another thing you need to remember is to take care of your ship. It needs constant maintenance. You should clean it and give it a shine. Every part of that boat should look and feel good. Maybe schedule a day, once a month, that is just for you to work on your boat; even if you’re not cleaning, take the day to enjoy your magnificent craft.

One last thing, the old boats that are still in good condition, are always the ones that are the most beautiful. Some of them have shipwrecked before and still come back. If you really want to be in this relationship, don’t go heading back to the market for the newest model just yet. Take the wheel and don’t be afraid to get a little wet.