It is okay to have expectations in relationships. Having expectations aren’t always bad. Expectations set boundaries and become the foundation of what you will accept. What is necessary is the communication of what your expectations are and how you express them.
I did not communicate. While we were good friends, my ex and I would talk for hours. I remember we went on a road trip, and somewhere along the line was shhhhhed. In my mind, I thought, did I get talked to that way, but my verbal/body language did not convey the same thought. After that moment, my days of singing in the car while riding left. When attempting to express my feelings, other similar situations were met with “I am the husband” you should be submissive. Early on, I allowed myself to be controlled and manipulated.
I’ve turned tears into a motivational acronym.
Trauma Elevate Arise Restorate Survived