From BuzzFeed · · 1m 20s
My Husband Is My Polar Opposite
Neil, a neuroscientist, and Marjorie, an EPA veteran, share a 60-year marriage built on complementarity.
In brief
Neil, a neuroscientist, and Marjorie, an EPA veteran, share a 60-year marriage built on complementarity. Marjorie and Neil, married for nearly 60 years, complement each other's brains to thrive in their partnership. Originally reported by BuzzFeed.
Morning on the Porch
Marjorie relaxes on her porch while Neil tries to get her attention with a list.
“Neil, my husband of nearly 60 years, is trying to get my attention.”
Polar Opposites
Marjorie is awake and ambitious; Neil is a morning person who handles tasks.
“Neil, who has already been to the grocery store, dropped off laundry, worked out at the gym, and taken the dog to the vet.”
The List
Marjorie writes a list for the day, but Neil has already completed most tasks.
“He appears at the threshold of the porch juggling my coffee and a Danish in one hand, my handwritten list in the other.”
Nighttime Routines
Marjorie plans the day at night; Neil sleeps early and wakes early.
“On a good night, I’m in bed by 1:00 a.m. and awake at the crack of 10:00 a.m.”
Shared Responsibilities
Marjorie and Neil balanced family duties for four children under 10.
“He changed diapers, made lunches, bought groceries, did the laundry, and more.”
Marriage Challenges
Marjorie’s father called Neil a sissy, but she credits his support for her career.
“You’re making a sissy outta that guy.”
Complementarity
Neil describes their marriage as complementarity, where opposites attract.
“What makes us so perfect for each other, is a phenomenon called complementarity.”
Brain Differences
Neil’s brain is linear and clear; Marjorie’s is creative and unpredictable.
“Marjorie’s brain works more like a Jackson Pollack splatter painting.”
The Party
Neil gave a complementarity speech at a family celebration.
“What makes us so perfect for each other, is a phenomenon called complementarity.”
The Morning After
Neil gives up on the list and joins Marjorie for a snuggle.
“I give up, and the sides of his mouth start to turn upward into an almost smile.”
The Secret
Their marriage thrives because they complement each other’s strengths.
“My wife has taught me to enjoy the journey and not worry so much about the destination.”
What to remember
Marjorie and Neil, married for nearly 60 years, complement each other's brains to thrive in their partnership.
