A boy loved a girl but she treated him as a friend. He was always there for her when she needed him and she appreciated that about him. However, she didn't see him as anything more than a friend. The boy was okay with this for a hile but eventually, he started to develop feelings for her. He tried to hide it but he couldn't help but feel hurt when she would talk about other guys. The boy knew that he needed to tell her how he felt but he was afraid of ruining their friendship.

One day, the boy mustered up the courage to tell the girl how he felt. He told her that he loved her and that he wanted to be more than just friends. The girl was surprised but she didn't feel the same way. She told him that she was sorry but that she only saw him as a friend. The boy was heartbroken but he respected her decision. He knew that it was better to have her in his life as a friend than not at all.

The story above is one of many I've heard from women who are in relationships with men that don't see them as anything more than friends. Many people say that they wouldn't mind being in such a relationship but I disagree.

If you're reading this blog then I'm guessing you know why.

There's nothing wrong with having male friends but if a man doesn't want to take things further with you, respect that. It's okay to remain friends even after your feelings change but ever let anyone treat you like they don't think you're worth more than that.

Every woman deserves to be treated with love, care, and respect. Unfortunately, we live in a world where some men will do everything in their power to keep us around without ever showing us any affection. Some guys aren't interested in relationships or dating. They're simply content with keeping a woman close enough so they can spend time with her whenever they please.

I'm sure most women will agree that while these men may be fun to hang out with they won't make good boyfriends. These types of men tend to become clingy and possessive over women they're dating. If their girlfriends start hanging out with other guys then he'll probably get jealous.

If you find yourself in such a relationship, it's important to set boundaries on what each person should expect from the relationship. You need to discuss your expectations before getting romantically involved. Here are a few questions you might want to ask:

Are we exclusive?

What does a healthy relationship look like between us both?

Where do you see us going in the future?

Do you see us together forever?

How often do you see me?

Will you introduce me to your family and friends?

It's normal to have doubts about a guy that only sees you as a  friend. Don't let those doubts cloud your judgment. Instead, make sure you understand what you're dealing with before moving forward. Also, remember that no matter how much you wish things could be different, you have to respect his decision. Just because someone doesn't see you as something more than a friend doesn't mean that you're not special to them.

On the flip side, there are plenty of men that are in serious relationships with women they consider to be their best friends. Many women have also been in relationships with men like this. These relationships are beautiful and fulfilling. 

Let's take a look at what makes these types of relationships work:

1. Both parties share similar interests and goals.
2. They trust each other.
3. They communicate well.
4. They show affection for one another.
5. There's a strong emotional connection.
6. They're not afraid to show their vulnerabilities.
7. They're not afraid to speak their minds.
8. They know how to support one another through thick and thin.
9. They enjoy spending time with one another.
10. They have fun together.
11. Their personalities mesh well together.
12. They have each other's backs.
13. They don't try to change each other.
14. They accept each other for who they are.
15. They don't hold grudges.
16. They value honesty.
17. They're open-minded.
18. They're supportive of each other's dreams.
19. They're each other's biggest fans.
20. They respect each other's space.
21. They don't put pressure on one another.
22. They don't get jealous easily.
23. They don't play games.
24. They can be themselves.
25. They are loyal to one another.
26. They have an established foundation built on friendship and mutual respect.
27. They are comfortable being vulnerable around one another.
28. They accept one another's flaws and weaknesses.
29. They are committed to growing their relationship together.
30. They believe in each other.

These relationships take time to develop. It takes time for two people to truly connect with one another. It also takes time for them to learn how to trust one another.

When these relationships are fully formed, they provide couples with a strong sense of comfort. They can freely express their emotions without fear of judgment. They feel safe opening up to one another about their fears, past experiences, and dreams.

Couples that are in these types of relationships are able to create a foundation based on love, trust, and commitment. It's a type of love that can withstand any test. A couple like this knows that they can rely on one another for anything. 

Now that I've shared my thoughts on this topic, I'd like to hear yours.

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