For What It’s Worth
One of the catch phrases in the dating scene these days is the term “soul mate.” Everyone is searching for their soul mate or has found their true soul mate. But what do people really mean when they use this term? Most people probably mean only that they have found – or think they have found – or are seeking- that very deep love which will lead to an eternal committment since both halves of the twosome see the world in such similar ways.
I however, have developed my own detailed definition of the term. See whether you agree.
From my point of view, every relationship consists of 4 spheres or levels in which people are attracted and can bond. The first is physical- how attracted are the 2 people to the external characteristics of the other. The second is intellectual – how easily can the couple converse and how many of the others interests can each contribute information to or at least listen to with understanding. Third is emotional – how in-touch is each partner to his/her own feelings, how expressive is each person is demonstrating these emotions to the other, and how readily will the partner make himself vulnerable to the other by acknowledging fears, dreams, mistakes, etc.
And the fourth sphere is spiritual – how strongly does organized religion play a part in each person’s life or is each perhaps more committed to concepts of just living a good and righteous life without participating in established bodies, or do they perhaps not consider “morality” as being important at all.
Now in most ordinary relationships, the partners have bonded on any two of these levels – and in fact it is often the disparities in the other 2 spheres which leads to the dissolution of many of these partnerships. In a really good relationship, the members have bonded on 3 of the 4 levels.
And if you and your partner have really bonded in all 4 spheres- well then- you have found your soul mate(s)!