How to Love Your Soulmate

When they hit all the right notes.

Joy —Photo by the Author

I want to credit May Pang for the inspiration to write this article. She wrote a brilliant piece published in P.S. I Love You about the five traits that lay the groundwork for a loving relationship. It was an eye-opener for me because it gave new words to why I feel as I do about my partner — Joy.
Thanks, May. I’ll link to it at the end of this article.

My partner Joy hits all the right notes for me. What does that mean?

• She loves me just as I am, without trying to change or manipulate me. Like many of us, I have a few relationship shadows. She overlooks them.
• Her playful, fun nature keeps me from taking life so seriously. When I want to focus on finishing an article she invites me to go for a hike or a camping trip. How could I refuse?
• Her taste in music is excellent. She goes about her day with blues, Latin, or smooth jazz in the background. My favorite genres from long before we met.
• She’s a low-drama mama. On the rare occasion that Joy’s mood is anything but positive and upbeat, it’s a sure bet she’s either ill or menstruating.
• She gives me all the personal space I need. Which can be quite a bit, because I tend to be pretty introverted. If I’ve been in a…