I've been in a steady relationship for two and a half years now, and I've heard my share of praises about how cute we are together, and how we're relationship goals, etc. However, I've also heard my share of criticisms about our relationship. I've heard nasty rumors from strangers, which hurt, but we got over it... But we've also had our share of criticisms from the people we are closest to in life, and those really hurt and messed up relationships between us and the people who felt the need to say them.. So I felt it was necessary to write a list of the things that couples don't want to hear, and you don't need to say.

1. "Well, I wouldn't have picked them..."

That's kind of the point Gretchen... If we both pick them, then that's polygamy and I'm not about that life. So honestly, why bother telling me this? Where is the point?

2. "It's not like you're going to marry them."

The classic parent line! And yes, I understand the thought process of this line, and sometimes it's warranted, but for the most part, you don't know how the relationship will play out. So if they do go the distance you're going to be the parent that was against them for the rest of your life.

3. "They're okay... But they're no [Insert Ex- Boyfriend/ Family Friend Name Here]"

Whether it's an ex or just a good friend that you could never get romantically involved with, your family just won't let the dream die. Give it up Mom, it's never gonna happen.

4. "They won't tell their family, so you can't really be dating!"

Did you get forcefully thrust out of the vagina at your birth? No, you came out when you were READY (for the most part). So why you trying to force them out before they are ready. People keep relationships secret for their own personal reasons, and they are NOT open for discussion. End of story.

5. "You're together all the time!!"

Your point being...? So I spend time with my significant other, that doesn't mean we're always together. We have time apart as well. Just because you don't see it doesn't mean it doesn't happen. I just happen to enjoy their presence... Which is odd, since that's literally exactly what dating requires...

6. "When they cheat on you I don't want to hear about it"

Okay Bob, way to be a pal. If you think they are going to be unfaithful, you shouldn't try to tear your friend down, you should gently talk to them about it once, and if they still don't want to listen.. Then you let them make their own decisions and be ready to pick them back up IF it goes south. Don't constantly trash talk their partner, because that's a good way to destroy a friendship.