It is entirely natural and understandable to want love to be reciprocated in relationships, whether they are romantic, familial, or friendships. Reciprocity is an essential aspect of healthy and balanced relationships. Wanting to be treated with love, kindness, and respect in return for the love and kindness you give to others is not selfish; it's a fundamental human need.
Expecting some level of reciprocity in relationships is not wrong. It is a reasonable expectation that when you invest time, effort, and care into a relationship, you hope the other person will do the same. Mutual affection, consideration, and support are vital for the well-being and satisfaction of both parties involved.
However, it's essential to remember that relationships are complex and dynamic. People have different capacities for expressing love, and their ways of showing affection may vary. Some individuals might have difficulty expressing emotions or struggle with attachment styles that affect their ability to reciprocate love in the same way you do.
While it's okay to want reciprocity, it's also crucial to have realistic expectations and communicate openly with others about your needs and desires in a relationship. Be willing to listen to their perspective and understand that they might express love and care differently than you.
At times, relationships may go through periods of imbalance due to life circumstances or individual struggles. In such situations, it's essential to be patient, empathetic, and supportive, but also know when to set healthy boundaries if the imbalance becomes prolonged and detrimental to your well-being.
In summary, wanting love to be reciprocated is not wrong or selfish. It's a natural desire in any relationship. The key is to maintain open communication, show understanding and empathy for others' unique ways of expressing love, and ensure that the relationship remains mutually fulfilling and respectful over time.