Compatibility

A stroll through our local Ikea has revealed what I've always known: Himself and I don't really have much in common in the way of personal taste.

I tend to draw toward a lot of wood furnishings with woven rugs, plump sofas with loose fittings, and a distinct western feel. Himself oohs and aahs over sleek, modern lines with a high gloss or polish, leather couches, and dark colors.

He'd like a huge personal recliner that he can claim as his own. Most likely, it would take up a quarter of the living room. I like smaller pieces that don't overwhelm the room.

I like to arrange things with a little thought into what would be pleasing to the eye. He tends to go right for convenience. I've had to keep a close eye on him over the years or our home would have beer labels (only from the imports), moose heads, hats tossed on any pointy surface or statue, and pictures stuck willy-nilly about the house.

Home decor is only one area where we don't agree. When driving, he gets right into the fast lane. I get into the lane I need to be in. (He'll get there faster than I will, but I avoid the stress of having to switch lanes quickly.) He watches intense action movies. I keep my nose in books. He loves to eat tons of meat. I usually take a lighter meat portion and fill up on sides. He thinks a flannel shirt over a t-shirt with jeans is acceptable to wear out of the house. I don't. =/ He listens to talk radio. I often drive around in silence.

In fact, there are so many things that we don't agree upon (covers vs. no covers, smooth jazz vs busy jazz), I guess it's safe to say we're pretty incompatible. I wonder how many people would come to this conclusion and decide to end their relationship?

We have nothing in common.

We can't agree on anything.

He/She's too different.

I suppose I could dwell on the areas where we differ, but I know that when I do, it stirs up discontent. Instead, I try to find areas where we agree.

We both love a tasty meal, and we both eat too much!

We both hate clutter.

We both want a home where people feel welcomed and relaxed.

We love music.

We have three amazing children.

We love to watch movies.

We hate onions on our pizza.

We like to make plans for home renovation (though can rarely afford to do anything about it).

We love our family, near and far.

Ice cream = bliss.

We love our Sunday School class.

We love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, and soul.

We struggle with our sin natures that keep us from spending daily time in His word and prayer.

We both would rather be with each other than with anyone . . . except our children!


Bottom line is, of course, that contentment is a choice. I have a million irritating habits. He has a million . . . and two. We can focus on what makes us tick or what makes us ticked. Daily, hourly, moment by moment, we choose to love.

It's a wonderful, compatible choice. At least, it's worked for us.

So far!