Dear friends in M&D what old preconceptions have you already thrown away in 2011?

I've thrown away the preconception that M&D is actually going to provide those mature

answers that everyone from the other posts comes here to get.

I no longer believe that if someone really loves you they show it 24/7 and never have an "off" day.

I think that "total honesty" is overrated. Sometimes the things you are thinking need to stay in your head where they belong. Some of those thoughts will do no good to your relationship once shared, and often can do irreparable harm.

I no longer think "good" couples are joined at the hip. I mean, if that's where you want to be, that's great, but often mutual appreciation grows after spending time apart with your own individual interests.

I now believe in "picking your battles". Is it really the end of the world? Did it ruin your life? Your day? Is it at all indicative of your partner's attitude toward you or your relationship? No? Then just let it go.

And finally, it is just FINE to go to bed angry. Forcing yourself to make nice when you really are upset is just stupid. And usually you don't wake up still angry so you have a better shot at a rational talk.

Aww Eric, so you suddenly believe in soulmates do you? How long have you been together then - a couple of months max? Left the wife yet?

Me? I just learned that there's no fool like an old fool.

Sorry to be such a cynic.

I don't particularly believe in soul mates... the love of my life died and I'm still here kicking around and hoping that somewhere I can find that again...it will happen, too, because there is not just "one" person.

I have learned that I make a lousy alcoholic, even when I try...I just can't maintain the necessary level of commitment it takes to murder my liver...I can, however, do a good imitation for about 38 days before giving up.

I have accepted that there is no need nor reason to place value on relationships with family just because they are family and to judge each relationship solely on the quality of that relationship with that person regardless of who they are or how you know them and to limit all relationship regardless of the nature that are unhealthy.

Pre-conceived notion: I can still be serendipitous.

My 2011, enlightenment: I'm a friggin idiot.

I didn't think it was possible to turn almost everyone of JR Ewing's answers into a believable question...

I've learned not to take YA seriously for one.

f***! soulmates! PROVED TO ME SOULMATES DO NOT EXIST!