The way to avoid deprivation of affection, love, and respect is being grateful for it when it comes your way.

Expressing gratitude for what you are not accustomed to receiving takes boldness and courage, humility and the surrendering of pride. It might even be painful, because the ego will claw on for dear life.

The scary prospect: are you cracking yourself open for someone who appreciates the struggle – one that will provide a safe place to fall?

If there is little response and reciprocation from the other person and you find yourself doing most of the opening up, you likely fall flat on your face.

But even then, what does it matter? You’ve done it once. You can do it again. And the next time, there might be magic.