We know that opposites attract, but can complete opposites manage to have a healthy, lasting marriage? Take a look at James Carville and Mary Matalin. By all accounts, theirs is a happy marriage, yet they are staunch opposites on the political spectrum. Carville, a Democrat campaign manager, and Matalin, a Republican campaign manager, are obviously proud of their relationship and often take the time to share their insights with others.
While it may be difficult to be supportive in the heat of debate, they respect each other immensely, know how to agree to disagree, give each other food for thought, and have the ability to laugh together instead of taking things too seriously. Even when they disagree on serious issues, they find a way to show love for each other.
I really don’t know how they do it. I admire their ability to keep politics from driving a wedge between them. I can’t say that my marriage would fare as well if my husband’s political views were so contrary to my own. While I welcome diverse opinions from others and defend their right to express those opinions, I daresay there would be some fireworks if I had married a left leaning man.
In the decidedly divisive world of partisan politics, Carville and Matalin’s marriage is quite a feat. Their relationship shows us that distinct opposites can find common ground. It is obviously something that takes work, which both admit freely. Yet, they find a way to keep their marriage strong even while strongly supporting issues on which the other disagrees.
We can learn a lot from such marriages. Politics, religion, background, and other influences often create tension in marriage, but we have a good example in Carville and Matalin of how to overcome that tension, keep love alive, and make marriage work.