Apologies this rambles on an on an on ;-)
Relationships are sooo diverse within all societies/cultures whatever sexual orientation... I think we tend to believe that there is a perfect 'form' of relationship between couples, I believe that relationships are complex and ever-changing, surely its impossible to retain the sameness throughout cos we are ever-changing beings whose experiences impact our lives and hence our behaviours. Like our younger folk 'hit' daily on how they should look/behave/eat/be slim/fit/find a mate etc. we oldees too are 'hit' by images of 'Jane Fonda/Joan Collins types' and receive just as many messages telling us there is an ideal look, ideal behaviours, and an ideal 'normal' relationship 'model'. In my experience there is no ideal look, cos I am aware of the reconstructions these 'ideal types' go through under the knife and many 'other' procedures, moreover there is no ideal relationship in any culture or society, there is an ideal type 'model', that we unrealistically believe is the norm but it fails, cos we humans are many and varied, not unlike pebbles on a beach. I believe we oft struggle in our couple relationships because we strive to attain the impossible... we must talk more to each other, and most importantly actively listen. I too oft get swayed by the youthful-looking oldees and their lives and A Mazing 'good looks' and 'figures' and wardrobes and oh sooo pristine houses and spouses and it makes me sad that I do, knowing its all sooo not 'real' however I would say that we need to 'get real' and reflect and realise that we are not what we were, we are what we are now!!! I believe the answer is talk more, listen actively, share your needs/wants/desires and respect yourself. Ramblings End :-)
