The best ideas are often simple ones. The New Yorker artist Olivia de Recat recently shared a post on Instagram featuring 10 minimalistic illustrations of relathionships changing over time.
“I bristle a little at the idea of ‘holding on’ to people,” de Recat shares. “Something the lines are meant to illustrate, and that I’ve come to believe, is that closeness is kind of like a dance. Each relationship consists of two lives, independent and moving by/of their own volition. So, you really can’t force closeness with anyone. All you can do is be there for the ones you love when they need you, and vice versa. This is perhaps why the ‘Parent’ line punched so many people in the gut.”
“I think it’s important to identify when relationships (specifically friendships/romantic partnerships) are difficult in ways that aren’t worth your energy. Knowing that comes from understanding your core values, and feeling confident about where your ‘line’ is going. When you’re at peace with yourself, I think you’re drawn to partners who are moving in a similar direction, even if they can be a pain in the ass sometimes. In the end, there will probably be only a small handful of individuals who stay with you through the thick and the thin. That’s okay. In time, you’ll know who these people are, because they will ignite something inside of you that is true and dazzling and ineffable. In committing to them, you’ll also be committing to yourself.”
Check out the illustrations below and swipe right to see five more.
