Being in a relationship is exactly what it says. Relating "to" or "with" someone or some thing. But being in relationship is not enough. The idea is to be well placed in the relationship.
A well made chair, sturdily constructed with durable covering, supporting the sitter, supporting many sitters individually and aesthetically pleasing each person to be in a great relationship with that chair.
The sitter will also respect the qualities of the chair and not jump up and down on it (like Tom Cruise did on Oprah's settee) thus destroying it's integrity.
If these qualities outlined above are not present the chair is seen as not comfortable. If we respect the chair it will serve us well for a long time. People will not like sitting in that chair if it is uncomfotable and the the chair will not be able to support you if it is broken. .
The people in relationship can help provide a similar set of qualities designed to set the scene for a relationship that is supportive, caring, even loving perhaps; above all, consistent and enduring all manner of stresses and travails.
