A quick note on compatibility.

We look at horoscopes, sun signs, moon signs; We discuss, we argue, we fight. We analyze, explain, defend;

Patience, understanding, communication, love, respect, care…

We need this basket full of goodies for survival!

Is it all too much to expect for? Do we really have so much time in our lives to maintain certain relationships?

Family aside, when a relationship is no longer working, it boils down to compatibility. A compatibility issue can be defined as, “a potential stage in a relationship when one or more persons do not want to spend the time and effort required to develop and maintain the 'basket of goodies.'"

The more I tried to define compatibility another way, it boiled down to this definition ultimately. Absolute compatibility can ideally be achieved with everyone, but as rational individuals, we act to maximize benefits given budget (time/effort) constraints.

For those who excuse themselves from a relationship because of a compatibility issue, I have a scary thought for you to consider.

Most men are still attracted to women, and vice versa. But what of the compatibility between men and women?

Confusion of gender roles, heightened miscommunications and misunderstandings over the years, busy schedules, globalization, and the changing world and changing generation- all of these require a larger basket of goodies!

To top it all off, increased rationality!

In this rational world, will men and women find each other to be compatible???

And does that further imply that perhaps single-hood or lesbian/gay-hood (not to be confused with homosexual in the genetic sexual orientation sense) are consequences of individuals’ rational choices?