Different, but the Same

We have family visiting from out of state, and I love it! Hubby's niece is with her mom this trip, and I am thoroughly enjoying her company. We're very different. In fact, there's probably little about us that you could say resembles in the slightest. She's young and single. I'm not. She's tiny. I'm not. She's blonde. I'm not. She's very adventure-seeking. I'm not. She's intelligent and curious, and I'm not (at least, not very). And the list of differences could go on and on. However, there's one thing we have in common. We each hold a mutual respect and love for the other. I admire her free spirit (to a point anyway), and she admires the fact that she can talk openly with me without fear of retribution. On some issues, we agree implicitly. On others, we probably stand poles apart. But it doesn't matter. That's what family (and some friendships) is all about. You may not be in the same political arena, but that doesn't keep you from talking about the funny people at the last family reunion. Her view of world affairs is much more inclusive (and exclusive) than mine, but I love hearing her tell of her experiences abroad and the passion she has for other nations and people. She loves hearing my time-worn stories of the grandchildren, and I think she sincerely finds them amusing. Is it true opposites attract? It was certainly the case in my marriage relationship. Maybe it's also true of bonds between friends. One thing is for certain, people don't have to agree on every point to have a relationship. They can agree to disagree. In some cases, as with this niece, it isn't difficult at all to pull off. Come again, sweet niece. You can tell me about your expansive view of the world and people in other countries, and I'll tell you about my husband, children and grandchildren (might even throw in a Piper story or two), and we'll have a great time together!