I've mentioned before that I have an ideal in my mind (have had for some time, with relatively little alteration), and it's one that can be hard to define for others, since many aspects of this hypothetical woman don't easily translate in description. But I'll try.
First, I've always been attracted to what I call "strong" women, though such a term is almost meaningless because it means different things to different people. A strength of character, a powerful will, a general demeanor of benevolent power is the sort of thing I'm getting at here. I want someone highly spiritual; not necessarily religious, but she
may be. A very rational mind is desired too, because I both appreciate such traits strongly and - on occasion - loose my own sense of reason to excess emotion or becoming lost in memory. Someone who would be a rock at such times and help me avoid potential harm or embarassment would be much appreciated. I want someone who is somewhat cynical but very optimistic. A somewhat twisted and sly sense of humour is essential.
Also: A strong sense of duty and honour. Firm in her beliefs yet open-minded and non-confrontational (but who naturally stands her ground without fear, too). Someone non-aggressive but powerful and commited, ambitious and determinated. Quiet strength. Stoic on the outside but deeply engaged in complex thought and feeling within. Deeply loving but less sensitive than I am (I need someone to reign in my strong emotions at times and "ground" me).
I suppose overall I'm looking for security - a woman who is secure in herself and can project that sense of self-esteem outwards, who can provide an sense of security for others, a protective presence for myself and the children. That's also essential - the desire or at least strong willingness to have children and a sense, as I have, of the sacred nature of parenthood and the parent-child bond. As well as someone who makes me feel secure, I want someone who makes me feel proud. I've always hoped for a prominant or successful mate - a leader, even a visionary if that's not pushing it, someone who does genuine work to better our people and planet, who I can in turn support in a personal, domestic, and spiritual capacity as her loyal mate, her support. As should be clear from all that, I want someone inclined to a career (I'm more inclined to part-time, looking-after-children type activities).
Someone who could never be accused of being selfish, and is always responsible, yet knows how to take care of herself and won't accept maltreatment from others. Someone whose eyes I can look into and see depth, pain, hope and determination enough to relax around her. Someone who will say "this is my husband" and feel a pulse of protectiveness and love as I feel love and gratitude for her. Someone, if I can be so bold, with whom combining my DNA with hers to produce children will be an honour. Someone who is confident yet careful, strong and deeply compassionate. And of course someone who can help me work through the personal issues I struggle with.
And someone who finds humour in most things, and is both extremely loyal and easy in my company (and I in hers) but who, like me, might also need alone time.