Understanding in relationships is necessary if couples desire to be productive. As people, we are uniquely made. We all come into our relationships with our own historical background; and everyone's makeup is quite different. One person's experience is totally different than the next person's. Consequently when we come together in a relationship with another person, we bring all of our character traits and flaws with us. We bring our opinions, a different perspective, and sometimes a total different understanding about our views in life.

When couples come together, they must realize that it will take a remarkable amount of understanding to dwell with someone who is totally different than they are. That being said, each person in the relationship will have to demonstrate patience and understanding until they can come together in certain aspects of their life. It takes an effort to get on one accord. Being on one accord does not happen overnight; this should be a continual effort!

Many relationships fail due to the inability to understand one another... Well what exactly does it mean to be understanding? Having an understanding heart means that yes there will be issues that may arise between two people, but you're willing to make the attempt to view situations from the other person's perspective. It also means that you're willing to be patient until both of you can sort through the issue. In other words, don't condemn a person for not being an exact replica of you! Again, our experiences make us who we are... The reason why we respond the way that we do when faced with certain situations is because of the way that we process information. To be productive in a relationship, we must understand the makeup of the person that we are in relationship with.

Being understanding in a relationship is one of the most mature characteristics that an individual could have; because no one is perfect! Now don't get me wrong, in being an understanding person, it does not mean to justify or tolerate certain behaviors. I believe that issues must be addressed, and your problems dealt with. However, if each party has determined that they are in the relationship for the duration, then an understanding heart is required. Make no mistake about it...being understanding in the face of issues, is challenging. But know this, if you are having thoughts of leaving the person that you are in a relationship with, please understand that you will encounter this challenge again; regardless of who you are with! Because again, no one on God's green earth is perfect. Everyone has issues, everyone will be challened in certain areas of their life; and we all will continue to make mistakes as long as we live! We are Human! Just a word of advice, if you are not being abused, and if the person that you are with is trying to do better and if you are not being taken advantage of...stick it out! People who have good and lasting relationships, are people who work to understand the person that they are with; and they are patient with one another until a change takes place.