An ideal marriage partner...

TOEFL: Independent Speaking Question 1:

Describe an ideal marriage partner.
What qualities do you think are most important for a husband or wife?



Well......., this is an interesting question that I've never asked myself before. I never think what qualities of the girl I like are. And if she asks me, the only answer I will give to her is "just the way you are."

And it's for sure that I cannot answer like that on the TOEFL...

Okay..... brainstorm...brainstorm.......

- compatibility
-----> have sth in common to share and spend time together
- maturity
-----> be responsible and can take care of one's self.
- pretty
-----> I don't like beautiful girls. I love pretty one, esp. with glasses and shirt.
          (I'm not an OTAKU (Japanese word for a 'geek'.
          I'm just thinking that it's cute...)
          I'd better cross out this one. Hahaha. xxxx
- open-minded
-----> Ah, yes. This sounds a lot better.
          As a couple, it doesn't mean that we have to agree in everything.
          The important thing is we must have an open mind           to accept and give honor to each other's idea.

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In my view, three characteristics are essential for a marriage partner. First and foremost, compatibility is very important because spending time for the rest of your life with someone is a huge commitment and without compatibility in values, interests and goals, it would be a struggle rather than a partnership.

Besides, maturity is also an important factor for being a good partner. I don't want to hang out with someone who is childish and cannot take care of one's self. At my age, it's time to consider a long-term relationship, which requires not only love and affection but also responsibility and care.

Moreover, a partner should be open-minded. Being a couple doesn't mean that we have to agree in everything. Relationship should be based on open mind to accept and give honor to each others' idea although it is different from yours.
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Wow, that's great! (How could I praise myself???) But it took me about 15 minutes to finish it!!! (Remember that in the real test, there're only 15 seconds to prepare and 45 seconds to speak...) So I'd better make it quick next time...