Me You Us Me Us You Us, Us?

It is true that I am stubborn, opinionated, driven, direct, and sometimes volatile(even operatic).
All that said, I am loyal to a fault, and I will sacrifice for you. I will find a way to succeed and achieve THE goal. (The one we discussed, agreed to and clarified)
I ask for and require respect and deference for my experience and track record. I will carry my load and be there. How close you are to my inner circles is largely up to you.

You might think I’m talking about a marriage here, but I’m not. This prose is about relationships with friends and family. Circles of trust require results to move close into the inner sanctum.

Marriage is different.
Marriage is a COVENANT between a man and woman made before GOD with GOD at its center. It is not some sort of legal contract. It breathes evolves and lives in relationship for better or worse. It IS the inner sanctum.

Back to the circles. I don’t know how many there are in my mind. I do know that there are lines and I’d prefer to have fewer. More than 2-3 groups is more than I can maintain.

Friendships come and go and when they go, they are often gone for good. Understanding my needs, behaviors, and choices sets the boundaries clearly.
I treasure and revere authenticity and loyalty. You can trust me. It is rare that I find others who I trust so much as to promote them, allow them into my heart and mind.
Living together is a hard thing.