Concur 100% about the leadership element, however that is a relationship specific thing as well based in no small part on the backgrounds and biases of the people involved. I want a marriage that is as close to 50/50 on shared responsibilities and “leadership”. My wife originally didn’t, but the longer we’ve been together the more she shares my view. My goal is to always make sure we both know what is going on. I may not actively make decisions on certain things (decorating our house) but I want to understand why we’ve done what we’ve done. And same for her (I handle most finances, but there is 100% transparency and I make sure she knows how things work and why).

Stereotypes are only useful as a starting point if we’re willing to be open-minded about the individual. If one can’t be open-minded, then they are harmful.

On a different note… I do think that it is important for men and women to spend time with friends, even if it’s a drink a at the Lava Lounge or a burrito at the Saturday Market. Having friends is important. On the other hand I do know as I get older and time becomes more precious I’d much rather hang with my babes or my family. My favorite thing to do on Sundays is hanging out at my parents’ house watching sports. I tell my friends they can hang out with me there, lol.

I disagree with the men leading thing, maybe that’s why I’m divorced. He thought he should lead, but marriage isn’t about leading, controlling or protecting. Marriage is about loving, communicating and teamwork (but not limited to) equally from both sexes. Men and women are actually very similar and we should teach our children and grandchildren not to stereotype or discriminate based on gender, it’s only a label.

… on the heels of that, when a woman says, “nothing is wrong,” in the words of the cartoon crows, Heckel & Jekyll, “Don’t Believe It!”