This article was originallypublished in “The Heart of Healing—Inspired Ideas, Wisdom and Comfort from Today’s Leading Voices.” Elite Books, Author’s Publishing Cooperative, Santa Rosa, CA, 95403. © Allan Hardman, 2005

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Introduction

Romantic relationship has been both a blessing and nightmare for many people in this new millennium. In the past, the rules of relationship were relatively structured and well enforced by families and cultures. Many relationships were based on the need for security and financial well-being in an uncertain world. Often, mates were chosen based on others’ expectations, class, race, or religious backgrounds.

Now, with financial independence being available to most, and ethic and cultural distinctions blurring, men and women are left more to their own discernment and integrity for choosing mates and establishing the rules and expectations of relationship. Along with this freedom has come increasing confusion and uncertainty in relationships of romance and marriage.

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