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I started thinking the other day about how “life
partner” should be defined. This question was precipitated by a conversation I had with a
man who basically described his desired wife as “sweet, very sweet, non-complaining, and
I can take care of her.” He admitted that he had a rescuer-Prince-Charming-type complex,
and was pretty strict about the criteria his wife-to-be should meet.
Now, for those of you who know me, you understand why I was concerned – this man
was still single, and sticking to his prescription has not worked for him so far in finding his mate. And
I have doubts if his prescription will ever be filled (barring miracles, of course, which I would
NEVER rule out), so I concluded that he was actually looking for a “wifey.” He
did not seem to really be in the market for a “life partner.” If you go to www.dictionary.com, where I looked up the word "partner," you'll see that each and every
definition, from a variety of well-known dictionaries, includes “spouse” in their
definition of ”partner!”
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Truthfully, I didn’t know what to expect exactly
when I went to look it up. But since I like to be clear about the words I use, I was happy to also
note that “partner” generally means one who is united or associated with another,
as in a venture, marriage or relationship.
Now, given that definition, I don’t even feel compelled to add the word "life" to the word partner
in order to clarify the term “life partner” anymore. It’s implied in the
word partner to begin with!!!
I rest my case.
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Welcome !
