To both camps I respond as follows: While there is no such thing as the perfect relationship, you know yours has the potential to last a lifetime if the two of you connect on four fundamental levels: (1) physically (2) emotionally (3) mentally and (4) spiritually. Below I touch upon what each connection entails.
Physical connection: While looks are certainly not the most important facet of a romantic relationship, they still count to a certain degree. You don't need a partner who looks like Brad Pitt or Angelina Jolie to appreciate their beautiful eyes, nice legs, smooth skin, or wonderful smile. In other words, while the person may not be a "10" on the attractiveness scale, they still have physical assets that you, as their partner, can admire. But we needn't place too heavy an emphasis on physical appearance, as it is the most shallow of the four connections you can forge with another person. In fact, a person might not find someone physically attractive at first, but their great personality actually enhances their physical appeal.
Emotional connection: When the two of you bond emotionally, you are sensitive to one another's feelings and needs. You understand, listen to, and show compassion toward each other. You resist the urge to judge the other person and instead seek to find common ground -- even if you may not always agree on things. A relationship cannot thrive -- or even survive -- without a strong emotional foundation of love, trust, respect, loyalty, communication, and understanding.
Mental connection: You know your relationship is very strong when the two of you complement each other mentally. You're both deep, intellectually curious, inquisitive, and perceptive. You each like to challenge the status quo.You share a similar taste in books, movies, music, and art. You can debate one another on a number of topics that the two of you find enriching, from politics to stem cell research. Perhaps you even enjoying going toe-to-toe at trivia, Jeopardy!, and other games that test your knowledge. In short, your minds fuse together almost seamlessly.
Spiritual connection: A spiritual connection transcends all others. At this stage, the two of you share a unique, near-psychic connection -- one you've never experienced with anyone else. You know how your partner is feeling without them having to say a word. You can almost finish their sentences for them. You know exactly which items would catch their eye at a restaurant or clothing store. The two of you are kindred spirits, knowing one another like the back of your hand.
Now, just because you don't share, say, a strong mental/spiritual connection with your partner doesn't necessarily mean the relationship is doomed. However, the more connections you can check off your list, the better your chances of having a blissful relationship that will endure until the two of you take your last breaths.
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