You nailed it.
Would a woman (or a man) with even the slightest bit of self esteem enter into a relationship where any physical object (or collection of physical objects) is more important to their partner than they are?
Consistently choosing any physical object over relationships with human beings seems to me to lead to a sad and lonely life.
I'd have to say that at least four things impressed me about my wife:
- Kid focused. She was a great mom for her son (now my stepchild), and I knew she's be a great mom for any children we had together. Maybe all the other qualities derive from this one.
- Self-supporting. This is important as much for psychological as financial reasons. But it is a very good feeling to know that if I were disabled or something, she could support the family.
- Emotionally responsible. I don't get blamed for her emotions. She doesn't agree with everything I do, but she does have some sense of when something she is (or I am) feeling is her responsibility - or mine.
- Loads of fun to be around. I really like hanging around with her. As our youngest gets ready to head off to college, this becomes more and more important.
Guns didn't even make the list.
Guess I screwed up.
But if I screwed up, why am I so darn happy I married her? And it's been 16 years and I'm happier every day?
Mike
