There is a painful place many people find themselves in relationships, and it is not always easy to place it.
You are present, but not really chosen. You are available, but not fully valued.
You are giving love, care, time, support, commitment, but the relationship has no clear direction. You are there, but you are not secure.
That is what it can feel like to be a stopgap in a relationship.
A stopgap is something used temporarily until the real thing comes. It fills a space for a while, but it is not intended to stay there permanently.
In relationships, being a stopgap means someone is keeping you around to fill an emotional, physical, financial, or companionship gap in their life, while they are not truly committed to building a future with you.
Dearest one, this is one of the most painful positions to be in, from the outside it may look like a relationship, but deep inside, you know something is missing. You are doing relationship, but it does not feel real.
How One Becomes a Stopgap
Most people do not willingly sign up to be used temporarily. It usually starts subtly.
Anyone may come into your life at a time when they are lonely, healing from a past relationship, confused about their future, emotionally empty, or simply looking for comfort. They enjoy your presence.
He likes your kindness. He likes the way you listen. He likes the peace you bring. But liking what you provide is not the same as choosing you. This is where many people get trapped.
They call often, to make you think they’re serious.
They open up to you, so you assume they trust you with their heart.
They spend time with you, so you assume they’re building with you.
One can become a stopgap when you show commitment where there is no clear commitment in return.
To be cont’d……..