Opinions, perceptions and thoughts are all functions of the mind that gives an individual a unique identity. These are formed based on what the mind is fed and frequently exposed to. At most times, we tend to bond more with others who share similar thoughts and give off same energy as ourselves. But what then happens with people who don’t exude the same energy as we do? Do we totally avoid their company?
Research has it that, individuals tend to bond with people who have similar qualities as themselves. Imagine the world lived solely on this principle where people only associate with their own kind. It will be funny how a lot of people would have to roam the world just to find their perfect match to either work with or get married to. A soul mate search indeed and a daunting task as well. Better still, everyone will perhaps remain single and even work alone. How interesting would it be?
This brings the concept of agreement into play. Agreement is the only principle that bridges the wide gap in our individual differences. It is upon this principle that healthy relationships are formed. Agreement in simple terms means ‘understanding’. In the area of marriage, it is one main sustaining factor of the union. Scripture states in Amos 3:3 that
‘Can two walks together, except they agree?’
The scripture above poses a question for reflection. ‘Walking together’ connotes an association or a mingling. In other words, ‘Can you associate with someone you barely know in understanding?
Our cultural, religious and family backgrounds make each distinct from the other. This is quite normal because everyone was raised and trained differently. There is beauty in agreement which places more value on relationships than individual differences. It is not ignorant of how different two people can be from each other, but it rather seeks to esteem their union through understanding despite their preferences.
We cannot do without offenses, one of the major causes of misunderstanding in every union. They are bound to come, and scripture emphasizes that in Matthew 18:7. It is how we handle them that matters. It is then obvious that the abrupt end of most unions is due to a lack of understanding between both partners.
When partners value their differences more than their union, they have no choice but to end what started on a beautiful note. Some perhaps even dare not start a relationship in the first place, not to talk of leading it anywhere. That is the extent to which people value their differences.
A thorough introspection would reveal that relationships are valuable, and we need each other to survive.
