The perfect partner:  Attractive, fit, fun, spirited, easygoing.  Independent but affectionate.  Active.  Loves the shore (like me).  Similar interests but some of her own.  Not high maintenance, but likes to go out and do things.  Supportive of my (and our) goals and dreams.  

Perfect partner?  Is there such a thing?  When we're hurt by a past relationship would our perfect partner be the opposite of what we just had?  Does our "ideal" change over time from broad idealistic dreams (he should be loving, honest, handsome,  etc.) to scaled down basics (he shouldn't be an alcoholic!)? This will be an interesting subject to think about this week....

There is no perfect partner.  If I believe ( as I do)  that we are all a work in progress, constantly growing and changing, then it becomes impossible to maintain my "list" .  That being said, I believe a successful relationship should enhance an already full and happy life. I like the concept the we are already everything we need to be and I try to remember that as I continue on my journey of self discovery. We need to maintain a love affair with ourselves first; discover and accept our own gifts, talents, fears, limitations, etc...  so that we can offer the entire package of who we are to our loved one.  I think a prerequesite for love is feeling safe enough to share our thoughts and feelings without fear of judgement.  That means both parties having the courage to take off their masks and reveal their authentic selves.  This has always been a challenge for me.  I have spent a lot of time searching for my knight in shining armor and, in the process of projecting my own needs on to him, realized I had no real desire to know who he was.  I needed him to be who I wanted him to be and, consequently, we both lost the opportunity for real intimacy and connection.

Ideally, a good partner should be authentic, non-judgmental and accepting.  The question for me is this: how do I let go of my own fears, needs and ego enough to cultivate the same qualities in myself that I'm looking for in someone else?

Rose, very well said.  I don't think I could have said it better.  Some ponderings for your question...  Love yourself unconditional and share this unconditional love with others.  When we love everyone in our lives unconditionally, then we can accept them for who they are.  Also, realizing the differences in life energies.  Check out the Life Energies DVD by Gary Null (www.garynull.com).