do cultural differences matter and when should you have a baby?

Do Cultural Differences Matter and when should you have a Baby?

by Sandra Prior

Finding a compatible partner is complex: often we are attracted to people who are very different to us; sometimes we may be attracted to people who display similar characteristics to our parents. We may be motivated to repeat patterns in old relationships, perhaps in the hope of it working out differently.

We may select a partner who will make up for our own weaknesses or who will satisfy some of our subconscious needs. Or we may seek the satisfaction of some need that was unfulfilled by a parent. The success of a relationship doesn?t hinge on matching everything as closely as possible, but more on one?s willingness to work at the relationship, respecting your partner?s world, and your unconditional acceptance of them. Compatibility is worked at over time and is constantly renegotiated.

You must, however, distinguish between deeply entrenched values (money, children, religion) and surface values. If people are able to accept, respect and manage their difference in values, beliefs and culture, great. Even better if they are able to fuse, redefine and grow new values as a couple. But if people wish to hold on to what is familiar to them, similarity in fundamental values is necessary. We shouldn?t over estimate our ability to manage the difference; especially in the first stages of a relationship. When we are in love, everything seems possible.

Is there a Right Age to have a Baby

Deciding to have a child is probably the biggest decision you?ll ever make. There is no such thing as a right age ? only readiness, which involves emotional and physical health, maturity, financial and social support and a willingness to integrate a child into your life.

Having a baby is something to look forward to: consciously creating a family to call your own; unconscious reasons are far more complex. For some, having a baby is an opportunity to give a child that which they never had, some hope a child will save a troubled marriage. The only reason you should have a child is a) to express the love which exists between you and your partner; and b) to experience the joy of seeing this little being become all they can be.

Being a parent is a huge responsibility; to get it right you need to:

Establish a healthy relationship with your partner.

Build a good support system with family, friends and other resources. Balance your life with interests that challenge you in different ways and allow you to explore different aspects of who you are. Research shows that women who work have better relationships with their children and their partners, and have a higher self-esteem.

Source: http://rossfleming.com/?p=5533

roman numerals new england patriots madonna madonna superbowl halftime ufc 143 results kickoff time super bowl 2012