by Aeryka Rae

Created on: December 02, 2009

From whence comes the purpose of anyone's life? Does it come by choice, by chance, or by design? Whether that purpose is fulfilled, or not...there is a purpose for each and every one of us. When we choose our relationships, we take a chance on what it is we're presented with. We don't really know who it is we engage ourselves with. We commit, do what we can with what we have, where we are. We're constantly faced with decisions. When things don't go as well as we would like...we're face with making the necessary changes to make it right. Sometimes that works, sometimes it doesn't.

Webster's Collegiate Dictionary defines 'compromise' as: a settlement of differences by arbitration or by consent reached by mutual concessions; to find, or follow a way between extremes; something binding by mutual agreement. The key word in this definition is 'differences'. When there is compromise, there are apparent differences. In a relationship, compromise doesn't necessarily bring about change; it's a spoken agreement that's not always kept. Someone (usually) has given up their position for the sake of another.

Webster's also defines 'change' as: to alter; to make radically different; to transform and to replace with another. There is no compromise here. Either alter, or replace. When you wear a set of clothing that becomes torn, worn, or dirty, what do you do? You repair, discard, or change them. When your standards are compromised, you don't change them...or, do you?

There are no two people who are alike. At some point in a relationship, they may find themselves in the position of compromising, and making adjustments so there is favorable change based on an agreement that has been reached. This change will not come unless there has been a shift, switch, and/or modification. In relationships, there is a blending of qualities between two different entities; not necessarily compromise...and, not necessarily change; but, a blending. If that blending doesn't become broken...then, don't fix it. Change is a constant; an individual process for collective progress. I like the lyrics to Michael Jackson's 'Man in the Mirror':

I'm gonna make a change, for once in my life.

It's gonna feel real good; gonna make a difference...gonna make it right.

As I, turn up the collar on, my favorite winter coat, this wind is blowing my mind.

I see the kids in the street with not enough to eat; who am I to be blind, pretending I don't see their need?

A summers disregard, a broken bottle top, and

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