Onward with the Deposits!!!

"Opposites can attract as in magnetism. Or explode, as in matter and antimatter." - Peter David

(The Epitome of Opposites!!)

Scott and I started premarital counseling a few weeks ago. In our first session, the counselor asked that we take the Prepare-Enrich quiz to check our compatibility and see if there were any areas of concern that we needed to discuss further. I couldn't WAIT to take it...that was right up my alley. Scott, well, I had to conveniently clear his schedule so he could complete it. So yesterday, I was so excited to go and find out where we stood.

The counselor started by asking us how we thought we fell into the categories. Scott and I are very realistic with our relationship and with each of our faults, so we told him that we felt as though we were compatible, however knew of our faults and probably there were areas of work. He was pleased to tell us that we were categorized as the best, a "Vitalized" couple which is defined as a happy couple with high positive agreements, have many strengths, and a few growth areas. ONWARD WITH THE WEDDING DEPOSITS! :)

Scott and I were excited to hear the results. He briefly went over some of the questions we answered differently and gave us the opportunity to discuss some of those. Then, he wanted to discuss the personality profile that was associated with the test. We all had many laughs with this one...the counselor also mentioned that he had the same personality profile as Scott and his wife, who also in an accountant, had my same personality traits. Haha, can you say God thing? :) Shocking as it may be, Scott and I had completely different personality traits, polar opposites you might say. We were completely different in social, change, pleasing, and emotional steady and were nearly the same on organized.

I was so baffled that he and I are complete opposites, yet are so compatible. The counselor went on to tell us how important it is to know each other's personality types because many of the traits can explain many of the differences we may face now and in the future. He also told us that in many cases, opposites do attract but over time, many of the opposite traits can become contention points in a relationship. He said it is important to be aware of the differences and learn to effectively communicate. The counselor went on to tell us that instead of the 4-6 more sessions of counseling that he normally does, he only saw us needing one or two more!

I'm so lucky to have such a wonderful partner who I can talk to about anything and who supports me in every way! He truly treats me like a princess and is always so thoughtful. Although we are completely different personality wise, I pray that we can continue to laugh through many of the differences! Life may not always be ideal, but I have faith that as long as we continue to focus on the root of our relationship, we can make it through anything together! Scott is truly a God-send to me!

I encourage each of you if you haven't been married yet to explore some intense pre-marital counseling before you take the plunge! Everyone needs it and you might even be surprised what you find out! Also, if you are already married, take the time to invest in your marriage now and talk to a counselor every now and then - like a refresher. The Prepare Enrich website can direct you to someone locally who is trained in the test. Also, this test is for any couple - premarital, married, married with kids, empty-nesters.... Marriage is a serious commitment and it's worth the investment! Life is hectic and it's important to remember why you fell in love in the first place.

Accounting for this Life: To the couples - How do you keep your relationship strong?