Is it any wonder, why relationships appear to be so complicated? There is an abundance of books published by doctors, physicians, psychologists, and anthropologists. Then there are television shows, news articles, and entire magazines dedicated to the science of relationships. It is overwhelming. Add to the equation, that much of the crap changes almost daily or contradicts itself, and everyone, men and women, become confused and cynical. How is anyone supposed to read, absorb, and apply all of the information properly?

The truth of the matter is the study of relationships is a science and so is everything else students, professionals, and independent persons analyze. If we spend time studying something, it will eventually become classified as a science. The word science, by just the simple mention of it, creates a fear factor for the ASM and the ASF. The average person associates the term to chemical reactions, mathematical calculation, medicine, geological studies, astrology, technology, and the scariest of them all, hypothetical theories. This association creates an illusion that an advanced level of education is required to understand the lengthy explanations, placing the solution well above the intellect of the average person. This illusion fosters anxiety and can deter many people to avoid the material altogether, rendering it useless.

In simple terms, I believe much of the published and advertised information uses too much jargon and it intimidates us. It creates confusion, over analyzes, complicates, and basically, turns us off. ASM's and ASF's don't have time for this bullshit. We need solutions that are understandable, direct, applicable, and efficient. You know, sensible ideas that we can embrace, build on, and mature in our daily life; that isn't a scientific solution, that is known as common sense.

So what can I tell you about common sense that you already don't know? Probably nothing, but at times, we all need a reminder or a different perspective. I have had many relationships. Some good, other ones your darkest nightmares couldn't imagine. In any case, I am convinced there are three key words that make or break a relationship. They are respect, communication, and tolerance.