Simple Traits Shared by the "Perfect Man" - Seeking Out Your Soulmate

I'm not questioning whether or not you believe in the concept of the "perfect" man; frankly, I'm not so sure that I do, either. Over time, lots and lots of time, though, I've come to realize that there are several traits in a man (or any person, really) that are highly desirable, and ones that I value. I'd like to share my 'list' with you; perhaps there are some characteristics that you'd like to add, or some that you might question for yourself.

1. He really enjoys my company, and looks forward to being with me. When we plan activities and fun things to do, it's always a 'given' that we'll be doing it together. While we have separate, distinct interests, sharing time with each other is a priority for us both.

2. No one is better at PDA's (public displays of affection) than my man. Actually, it's more of a physical display of affection. I'm not talking about groping in the front seat of the car while in the WalMart parking lot; it's holding my hand, opening a door for me, giving me a hug, whether we're alone or in public. You have no qualms about being publicly identified as being the man who's with me - and I respect that more than you'll ever know.

3. You always make me laugh. Sometimes, it's a conscious thing: you want me to chipper up, or just make me feel better after a long or bad day. It's your genuine spirit of finding the everday silliness in life that's both admirable and contagious. Your sense of humor is what drew me to you in the first place; it was your sense of humor that got us through times that were tough. You never lost that remarkable touch.

4. You're neat, but, thank God, not a 'neat freak'. You appreciate my cleaning the house and keeping things in order, but you don't over-obsess with the 'small stuff'. We're on the same page with this as many other things: Neat is good! Neat can be fun! But fretting about keeping every little thing in its every little place isn't a part of your nature. You appreciate orderliness; so do I.

5. You're a wonderful father to your children. They are the light of your life, and it shows in every thing that you do for them, and how you plan for the future. Best of all, you appreciate them not only for being 'your' children, but for all of the quirkly, unique little characteristics that make them the people that they are.

6. You work hard to keep our marriage, our relationship, alive and fresh. It takes time to carefully cultivate a strong bond, and even more time and work to maintain it. It's never been a one-way street for either one of us. Even after all of these years, you still make me feel like I'm "still the one".

7. You are a wise man. You think about issues long and deeply, especially before speaking. You're not afraid or angered if your opinions and thoughts are challenged by anyone else; you're always up to a good debate! You've never backed down or shyed away from a difficult situation or issue; you always address it head on. You watch very little television, except for the news and occasional cable programs. You are intelligent about the use of your time and the use of your money.

8. You're a risk taker. You're never afraid to go above and beyond with an idea or theory; after all, you've researched it throughly. That's just instinctive for you. Sometimes I wonder if you're more than a little worried or afraid that something will backfire, but if you do, you neve show it. You've never played it so 'safe' that life becomes boring. You have the understanding that a life without taking a risk from time to time doesn't make for living life to its fullest. While I, on the other hand, may hesitate, worry or question your judgement, when all is said and done at the end of the day, those risks you were willing to take paid off handsomely. And the ones that didn't? Stuff happens. We share a mutual respect that doesn't life or die by placing blame.

9. You make our life together both extraordinary and balance. We work hard together on our life's work, but you understand the value of making family time as well. You put in long hours at your work, after the rest of us are asleep or goofing off, to make our dreams of financial security and family happiness come true. The really important things in your life are what we do as a couple, and what we do as a family. Your idea of a good time? Making a real event out of picking the family Christmas tree every year, setting up the pool as the perfect place to host kids' and adult parties, cooking an inspired meal to accommodate the vegetarian child. Not only do you love annual traditions, you come up with new and different ones each year as well.

10.. You understand the importance of taking care of yourself physically and mentally. Your gym time is important to you, you follow your exercise regimen to the letter. You feel very strongly about encouraging the rest of us to eat well and exercise. There are always at least two books on your nightstand: a biography, 'how to' home repair books, financial journals and studies. You really are an advocate for a 'sound mind in a sound body', and lead by example.

Maybe I could go on and on with my list of traits that my idealized man would have. They are, quite simply stated, the qualities of mind and spirit that beguile me. And if you, my 'perfect man' are out there, somewhere in cyberspace or somewhere in my back yard, let me know where you are...