<p>
  It&#8217;s a <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0UUYL6kaNeBTDBRbkJkeUtabEk/">summary of a massive thread</a> from MetaFilter about Emotional Labor.
</p>

<p>
  What the fuck is EL (I didn&#8217;t know, either, a few days ago)? It&#8217;s the often unacknowledged work that goes into a relationship. And it&#8217;s work that&#8217;s not usually divided equally between the genders.
</p>

<div class="text_exposed_show">
  <p>
    In my marriage I do think I did a pretty good job in many aspects around EL, but I also recognize that there was work that she did, that was valuable, that I never did.
  </p>
  
  <p>
    Party planning (other than the food). Holiday cards (although I never bought in to this cultural norm, I recognize it has value). Even staying in touch with my family.
  </p>
  
  <p>
    Men, it behooves your relationship well being to read and understand this thread. To appreciate and acknowledge. And to share the workload.
  </p>
  
  <p>
    Women, I think if you haven&#8217;t read about this yet, you may have an a-ha moment when you think about your relationships and what has been silently expected of you your whole lives.
  </p>
</div>

And here is an article about men, as they age, having problems maintaining their friendships.

These are related.