Blog #710: Should I Head to the Altar?

It may be the most unusual question
I’ve ever answered in this blog.

“Should I head to the altar with this guy?”

I’ll pour my best heart into my thinking.

______

Shawn –

I respect your answers and thinking. You write about life and success, and although my question might be unique, it definitely is about life and success.

I’ve been dating a man for six months who’s extremely right in his political beliefs. I lean far more left. We’ve gotten into a number of mean arguments about the state of politics and the future of America. With the serious differences in our thinking, can this relationship work in the long run?

There is a lot good about him. He is successful in his career, financially secure, treats me well (except when we debate politics), and works out regularly. Most of the time I feel he is a great catch. Then we argue.

What do you think? How big a deal is this? Should I head to the altar with this guy and even have kids with him?

I am curious as to your perspective and look forward to your answer.

______

Here’s my response.

Dear friend…

Oh, boy!

I’ll take a shot at this one. Even more, I’m going to tie on my “Be Brave!” sneakers and use your question for this week’s blog.

Please clearly note…

This is just MY opinion based on how I see life. Please let my answer be a mere ounce in tipping the scale of your one-ton question.

I wouldn’t want that relationship.

Life is extra hard as it is without walking into a home every night where core beliefs greatly differ. If I knew I was walking into disharmony after having already lived a disharmonious day, I’d be miserable.

BUT…

There is proof that this sort of relationship works on a giant scale. There are a couple of very famous, HUGELY differing political operatives who got married, had kids, and are still together.

Because they make money as political consultants for separate political parties, they might just be laughing together all the way to the bank. But for passionate, everyday people like you and me who don’t make a living from politics? Differing opinions at home can be extra harsh and dividing.

Is that what you are okay with living for years and years?

My thinking is this…

In a world of thousands of dating options, it might be wise to find someone with whom you don’t have to argue. Life is already extra hard without pushing on each other’s bruises.

Is it possible to succeed?
Absolutely.

Is it practical to keep walking this direction?
That is for you to decide.

Let me finish by reinforcing once more…
This is only MY very small opinion for your very big question.

Please write me in the future and share what YOU decided.

Either way…

May you find harmony in your decision.
I am rooting for you hard.

With kindness and gratitude…

S.

(Audio version)