What Defines a Healthy, Long Lasting Relationship?

What makes a relationship good? In today's society, that answer may vary from person to person. Most people meet, chat, and become casual friends. They call each other on the phone a couple of times before finally going out. They go on about 3 or four dates and then they become exclusive. They date for about a year and a half, both being in a place in their life where they want to get married.

He proposes. She accepts and they become engaged. They take a few months and plan out their wedding. They get married, have kids, and live happily ever after. That is the scenario that most people desire but it doesn't always happens like this.

I met my girlfriend through my job. I saw her one day and she caught my eye. I thought she was beautiful and I engaged in small talk with her for about 3 or 4 weeks. I asked for her number and we talked on the phone about 5 times. The first time we hung out, I told her where I was in my life and she told me about her wants and needs. Within a week, we were living together.

Most people would say that that move was very unconventional. That because we hadn't known each other for longer than a month, it wouldn't last very long.

Is a good relationship having known somebody for years then dating them? is it going on so many dates or talking to them on the phone for so many nights? A good relationship is knowing where you are at on every level. A good relationship is the blending of two people into a space where they can be themselves and love somebody unconditionally. But what if you reach that point in two weeks?

Six months? And if you hit that point early is it in the best interest to continue onto things that more traditional couples do.

Me and my girlfriend are about to hit the two year mark, about to get engaged, and are still very in love. I guess I found the meaning of a good relationship.