On The Question Of Soul Mates
I watched the movie TiMER this afternoon. It’s sort of a comedy, sort of a romance, but it has a very sci-fi premise. It starts with two questions – What if everyone has exactly one soul mate, one true love, that they are bound to meet and live happily ever after with? and What if a device could tell you when you will meet that person?
TiMER addresses both of these questions well, along with the implications of living in a world where these timers are as common as iPods (and, in a nice touch, sold in a very Apple Store environment). It made me think about what I believe about soul mates, true love, destiny, and the like.
I’ve said in the past, and thought again today, that “I believe in true love for other people, just not for me.” I believe that everyone has soul mates, but that this idea can and should exist separately from the idea of love (not to say that your lover shouldn’t be your soul mate, but that your soul mate doesn’t have to be your lover). I told someone as recently as last week that when I begin to be interested in a girl, I play through the relationship in my mind, all the way through to things turning sour and the break up (I’ve been told this is a terrible mindset; it probably is, and it probably has something to do with why I don’t put much effort into getting into a relationship).
I believe that not all relationships end, that many turn into marriages that last till death. I see examples of this in my immediate and extended family, and in several friends’ relationships. I also see that at least half of all American marriages end in divorce, and way more than half of dating relationships end in break ups. I’m not sure whether it’s cynicism or pessimism or something else, but for the past few years I’ve had trouble believing that I’ll ever find true love.
Which is probably why I haven’t. If you don’t think something’s there, you don’t put much effort into looking for it, do you?
Anyways, go watch TiMER. And then ask yourself questions about soul mates, one true love, and whether it’s good to know (or think you know) your destiny.
Trope of the Day: Flynning – classic swashbuckling action.
I actually read a book once that suggested you think through the relationship all the way through the end when you start having the “what if” feelings. I believe the thought process of the author was that then you’d be more prepared if things didn’t work out and wouldn’t wallow, because you’d be prepared. Or perhaps it was suggested to plan a “break up day” of sorts, but if things were going well continue the relationship. I’d have to read it again though, I read that book in High School. Anyway, I agreed with it, better prepared than completely crushed, because you’re right – most dating relationships don’t last. But chin, up, friend! I know you’ll make it work with the right person. You’re awesome like that.
Hope everything is going at least “OK” if not better. Let me know if you need anything!