I used to paint when I was young. I was a dancer. I loved hiking. I loved outdoor sports and so it goes on. I used to be is the common theme. I have forgotten about all that, because my partner does not like that? Or our relationship much more demand? Or my partner demands more than I do? Or my partner does not care about my hobbies? Many relationships destroy a person's desires.

This problem has to be looked at from the point of both the partners. Women are anyway expected to give up more to look after family. If her husband is callous about her satisfaction of doing what she wants the situation becomes worse for her. Many budding talents are not allowed to grow because of the sacrifice their relationship demands. This depends on the partner's attitude. If the partner understands, he/she will find ways to help other realize the dreams and fulfill desires. If the partner is self-centered, this will not happen.

There is another major dimension to this problem. Those who bury their desires deep inside some black hole don't show their dissatisfaction. They take it as a matter of life. But it is not that. Once they begin telling assertively about their desires, their partner would have to wake up and find ways. What is required most is not silent acceptance, but assertive action.

Every human being needs some freedom. Many of us envy birds, butterflies and other creatures that roam around with total freedom. We don't have that freedom. That hurts our inner being. We have to ourselves reclaim our freedom.