My Match time is nearing a close (10/13/2012). I've found someone special. :-)
I am an educated, intelligent professional and a kind, considerate guy. I can be goofy and love having fun, but I have a very deep and serious side as well. I am passionate about those I love, and am protective of those with whom I am close. I wear my emotions on my sleeve, and do not have a hard time expressing them. Frankly, I have a hard time NOT expressing them.
I am the father of two teen boys who I love very much. My 17-year old lives with me half time and my 21-year old pops in and out of living with me. Both are wonderful kids and I'm proud of the job my ex and I have done raising them. They are not perfect, however, and I think we learn how to love unconditionally through our children. I believe that applying that same love in a relationship is a key to success. It's not easy, but it’s a wonderful goal.
I am a musician and love being involved in some fashion in the music scene. Currently, my recording studio is my “music fix,” along with watching and supporting local bands and musicians. I drive a Honda (automobile), and will never drive a Harley, wear blaze orange, own a fishing boat or a snowmobile, or spend time watching NASCAR. That's just not me.
So much is important, I've learned, in making a relationship work. The older we get, the more important it seems that we be matched in a number of important areas. The following list is my short list – things I have found to be most important - the world of attraction according to Craig:
1) Physical attraction. It's the spark that begins the whole thing and without it, it's tough to go much further.
2) Passion. We're all passionate about something. It makes us interesting people to have interests, causes, hobbies - things that make us light up. Sharing that passion is one way we can connect as a couple. Although we will share certain passions, it doesn't mean that we need to share every interest. It does mean that we will support and respect each other's interests, needs, and desires to live a fulfilling life.
3) Intellect. I love intellectual pursuits, and hope my partner feels somewhat the same. I want to be able to talk politics, environmental and social issues, relationships, spirituality, music, art, and anything else we find important or interesting. I hope that my partner holds a sense of curiosity about the world around her.
4) Emotional maturity. I love those who understands the dynamics of relationships, and who strive for peace and harmony. Partners give to and receive from one another - it's how two people fuel a relationship. Things will not always be perfect, though, and both need to effectively communicate. Where there's distance between our ideas, goals, or desires, we must agree to respect our differences and attempt to reach a compromise, or just plain accept our differences! Neither of us is perfect, and in order to advance beyond the Honeymoon stage of a relationship, we must understand and accept our partner's shortcomings and imperfections. All of this is easy to say, but challenging to practice. Understanding the challenge is a first step.
5) I am a warm, emotionally open, giving, and physically expressive in my love. I hope my partner is similar, and that we are compatible in our desire for and our thoughts about the importance of intimacy in a relationship - both emotional and physical.
As I examine this list, I see I've described an ideal partner. If you and agree with at least half of what I've expressed we have a lot in common. I wish you all the best of luck in your search for a meaningful relationship.