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A great relationship is about these two things

Relationships can take us to the heights of passion and the depths of despair.

There are days we look at our partner and ask ourselves how we got so lucky. Then there are occasions where we can't stand to be in their presence, if temporarily.

Nevertheless, relationships entail taking the good with the bad.

It doesn't mean you have to settle for less, or let the other person get away with everything. Nor does it mean expecting them to be flawless or of like mind in every way.

Here are two musts in order for a relationship to be successful:

1. Appreciating each other's similarities. 

Maybe you're both rabid football fans, hardcore comic book geeks, or the biggest Beatles fans anywhere.

Or perhaps you're both optimistic, financially responsible, or averse to rollercoasters.

There's no question that in order for the relationship to run smoothly, both partners should have some overlapping interests, fears, views, or all of the above.

Otherwise, you'll always find yourself at odds over everything from where to eat tonight to what destination to visit for spring break.

 2. Respecting one another's differences. 

 While similarities can certainly enhance a relationship, a couple's differences can similarly enrich their bond, always giving them something new to share, explore, and talk about (even if they don't come to love the activity or topic in question themselves).

Imagine how boring a relationship would be if both people were alike in every way. It would feel like being with the male or female version of oneself.

Sure, if you're too far apart -- whether in terms of your faith, political beliefs, plans for the future, or hobbies -- making it work will be challenging.

But no one should pass on a relationship just because you differ on a couple of things.

For example, a relationship between an introvert and extrovert is possible, as the two balance each other out. But it's important they each respect one another's needs, whether for social discourse or solitude.

The same applies to a Democrat and Republican, a meat lover and vegan, and the list goes on.

It all depends on the extent to which both are able to tolerate the differences. If they lead to constant bickering, it doesn't bode well for the couple.

But if they're each open-minded and understanding -- receptive to reaching a compromise when it comes to matters on which they may not see eye to eye -- the future looks bright.

No relationship is perfect -- nor the people in them. But accepting someone for who they are -- flaws and all -- while embracing your common goals and values is the stuff durable relationships are made of.
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