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Appointments Quote by Marshall B. Rosenberg

“Very often, the way love is defined, it does violence to both people. It almost makes them a slave to the other. For example, if to be in love, or to be married, it means that I'm responsible for the other person's happiness, now we get into this guilt game, where if they're upset, I'm at fault…” quote by Marshall B. Rosenberg
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“Very often, the way love is defined, it does violence to both people. It almost makes them a slave to the other. For example, if to be in love, or to be married, it means that I'm responsible for the other person's happiness, now we get into this guilt game, where if they're upset, I'm at fault. Soon, that makes the person we are closest to about as much fun to be around as a prolonged dental appointment.”

Marshall B. Rosenberg

About This Quote

Source Book: "Nonviolent Communication", 2003

Love can become oppressive when responsibility for another's happiness creates guilt.

In simple terms: Love can feel like a burden.

Key Takeaway

Avoid guilt in relationships.

Themes

love responsibility guilt

Mood

empathetic analytical

Type

self-help philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marriage
  • friendship
  • family
  • therapy

Key Concepts

psychology communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to share happiness responsibility?
  • Can love be unconditional?
A Different Perspective

Love also requires mutual responsibility.

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