Let's get back to basics....

[Joanna 2]

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[FreeBird]

Ooohhh, intriguing I like this! Let me soak this in for a minute

[FairIsFoul]

My DW and I have always felt like we are a complementary pair -- we each have qualities the other lacks. I'm big picture, she is details; I get things done quickly, she does them thoroughly; I see what we'd like to do, she brings it down to earth to what we CAN do. It's not quite an "authority/power" balance, like you describe, but I think you're on to something as far as balance. A relationship has to be balanced or it topples.

And writing this just made me see my marriage in a different way -- that perhaps we are out-of-balance. Interesting.

Not the point of your post, but your post just pointed me in a direction. Stuff to think about ... So, thank you. ;-)

[Cookie]

Hmm...

People with spinal cord injuries often find a way to modify their environments so they can be fully functional. They are compensating for the parts that have been lost. We invent things to help them become non-reliant. I think for me at this point, I look at non-reliance as the goal. I don't want to be dependent on another person to complete me or the household.

Your point re: power/authority and needing each other is good in theory. But I'm not sure it's a one size fits all. I know some really strong women (and men) who are doing just fine without an other half. Once in a relationship though, yes, it helps to have balance and stress ensues when it's lopsided in any way.