There are typically two ways that people treat relationships that they care deeply about, be it a close friendship, a family bond, or the romantic kind:

Either, 1. They love the other person with all of their being, and they demonstrate this through unselfish actions that build the other up in spirit, and a desire to include that person in every aspect of their lives.

Or, 2. They are constantly preparing their heart for the day that person will exit their life, whether by choice because of a fault by one person or both people, or by some unforeseen, uncontrollable, unwanted circumstance.

And so the question is born: which of these is right?  Upon first glance, I think most of us would instantly say, "Option 1 is the correct frame of mind."  After all, isn't that how any of us would like to be treated?  To be cared for, desired, and built-up? 

Yes, that sounds amazing; and if achieved, you could probably sell your story to the Lifetime Channel.  And I'm guessing you would soon find that the made-for-TV adaptation of your relationship is a favorite of kleenex-box toting, ice-cream-eating women who will no doubt buy the flick on DVD for use at any of my mother's "Girl's Movie Nights" or whatever equivalent of that your mother may have.

But life is not a movie, and the storms that it brings are not simply a dramatic background effect for a Hollywood kiss.  All relationships end - whether by conflict, by slowly drifting apart, or by the inevitable death that awaits each and every human.  In recognizing this, in preparing for this, we realize the true value of our relationships and the people with whom we are connected.

So is the correct answer Option 2?  Should we carry on in paranoia?  Or conduct ourselves with a fearful desperation that comes across as needy and unsure (which is often enough to drive a friend or romantic interest away)?  Clearly this can't be the solution. 

As with most things, the truth here can be found in the middle: 

Let your love be strong. Live prepared for the end, but never in fear of it.  Let your loyalty be fierce and unwavering, even in the face of incredible conflict.  Be conscious of the storm, but do not be consumed by it.  Swear this to a friend, and then live by it with all your might: "this is a promise -I will never let you down."

The shipwreck is predetermined.  Your response to it is not.

Send this along to a friend or anyone you care about deeply.  This song was written just as much for you and for them as it was for me.

 Love you all,

Evan