Does a Soulmate really Exist?

[JrzyButch]

Is there such a thing as a Soul mate? If so, Do they really Exist?

[Girl_On_Fire]

Is there such a thing as a Soul mate? If so, Do they really Exist?

A question that has been asked many times, JrzyButch. I do believe soul mates exist. However, from what I understand about them, soul mate relationships are not the happy stroll-through-a-field-of-flowers relationships they're portrayed to be. Soul mates meet each other to tear down walls, confront major issues, and help their partners grow in significant and often very painful ways. They are incredibly intense but they're not meant to last.

I think soul mates are often confused with twin flames, who are supposed to be your partners for life. And yes, I believe those exist as well. I think we have to go through a lot of soul mates before we find our twin flame.

[Virago]

I agree with Girl. I believe our soul mates help us work things out, confronting major issues.
And how wonderful if you can find your twin flame.

[LaneyDoll]

My answer is a little contradictory...

I think that we DO have soulmates. But, I think that the person we are connected to changes at various stages of our life.

For example, the person who we were meant to be with at 16 is perfect for the adolescent us and probably not who we are going to be with as we age. As we mature and we grow, we often part ways with the person we are with and find the next person we are destined to find. This cycle may repeat several times during our life.

I think that the person we are with, for good or bad, whether soulmate or not, is who we are meant to be with, to help guide us to where we are supposed to be, to teach us lessons along the way and to learn from us at the same time.

I also do not think that our soulmate is necessarily a love relationship or one where love extends beyond a platonic type. Friends can be soulmates just as easily as lovers can. I think soulmates are connected in a variety of ways, not just the sexual ones.

It may sound weird to think that way because many people think that a soulmate is one person, typically a lover, forever. But, as we change, do our souls not change too? Therefore, would our soulmate not change with it?



:sparklyheart:

[Artzy76]

Is there such a thing as a Soul mate? If so, Do they really Exist?

I Do believe soul mates exist. I also believe that soul mates come into our lives in many forms not just romantically!
I believe that people are brought into our lives for specific reason to help us accomplish life lessons or us to help them.
In my opinion, its an ever-flowing exchange of energy. If we pay attention we can learn from and become a higher self. Everyone we meet or come across has the potential to touch our lives or you to touch theirs. Paying attention to those energy exchanges and greatly increase your self awareness & the awareness of those around you.

I agree with what "Girl on Fire" said also about twin flames. I don't know much about it but am on a mission to learn more about it now... lol

Ty for the post :)

[peachy]

Oh yeh I believe in soulmates and it's a subject that is really close to my heart because I met my twin flame soulmate and it's a bit like giving birth in terms of intensity and bonding. It's also confusing because it usually involves telepathic experiences with the person, so if this is a new experience - which it was for me - that can really take some time to get your head around. My ex husband the man I married is also a soulmate. I believe everyone is a soulmate to some degree because everyone has the ability to touch one's soul. There are two kinds of soul mate experience where the mate either supports your soul - or drags it out of your chest for an overhaul. Both are beneficial in the end. The thing I know about twin souls is they set something in momentum, an inner transformation that is sometimes beautiful, sometimes awe inspiring, sometimes agonising and unstoppable.

I will have a think about this and add more later.

[Siren's Song]

Rumor has it. It's a lovely dream. I'm not sure if soul mates exists or not. I do know that I can be my sweetest love and give myself what I dream of. I do know that I own the love that lives inside of me, and I can give it to myself. In reality I have control over this. If someone comes a long that is my perfect fit, well that's sugar in my cup.
:tea:

[macele]

like others have said, a soulmate does not guarantee you'll be together forever. a soulmate is a connection that is truly madly deeply. friend, lover, or maybe i've never met them face to face. but if my soul is touched, then well, my soul has a mate. i've be fortunate to have had more than one. i like to think of the soul as a vessel. the soul gives the spirit a means of transportation. when i think of those that have took my spirit for a "ride", ... o my how i miss them and love to think about. blessed. a soulmate makes you a better person via the connection.

[NorCalStud]

Found. There is no doubt in my mind that I have found my soulmate. We are . We just are. Nothing else compares!

[sierragirrl]

IMO:
you would be soul mates when you are together, for the time..no one is put into your life by mistake. you learn from it, you grow from it, you love from it, you hurt from it.
feeling giddy and full of "love" is great we all like it. it has our souls feeling good and it improves our self esteem, puts a skip in our step.

could it be forever?
sure if you can work on issues together.
unfortunately it doesn't always work out that way.

then its time to sit down and revaluate things, work on ourselves, and when the right person steps into your life & you are willing to try again.
cowboy up, and have fun!
:flowers:

[Allison W]

No.

I'd explain why, but Tim Minchin does it better, so I'll let him do it.

LAzodf69rfk

[gaea]

I have met more than one in this lifetime however the blue eyes one I have waited and looked for .......hy is here in my arms my soul knows this connection better than any other and there is no explaining to the human what the soul already knows.

the one I sought has finally arrived.

[RockOn]

My opinion on soul mates ...

Yes, I believe they exist.

I also believe they are people who sincerely love and care for each other to the point of working through each others difficult issues without bailing out. They grow together in similar directions and stay together. (If the relationship is built on a healthy basis, I like to see people stay together and work things out.)

I think many times the grass looks greener on the other side, and then people find, after a while, that "greener grass" was not all that.

Maybe I am a fairy tale butch. Though I am not in the market and am not looking around at the present, I do still believe in the existence of the type soul mates I described. Just for me, if I stopped believing it, I would become a very hard person. I am not there ... yet? :)

[Mormegil]

i sure hope so

[RockOn]

Another thought ... I think they can also serve to be change agents.

[Okiebug61]

Is there such a thing as a Soul mate? If so, Do they really Exist?

My answer is YES! Red loves me despite my many imperfections. It is not ever been about me or her, it has always been about us. Today is always easy to get through, it is the out of the blue WTF do we do now that has solidified who we each are and how important we are to each other!

[starryeyes]

I used to think so, but every time I think I have found that person, it isn't. Or, if they were, they haven't stayed in my life for whatever reason.

Soo.... I don't know? It nice to think about one existing and having that complete half... but the jury is out for me.

:)

[Mel C.]

Totally.....in movies, books and television!

[MrSunshine]

No. But succubi do and they want your soul and to mate. So there is that.

[imperfect_cupcake]

I don't believe in souls so the term is problematic. No, I don't believe I have a soul so it cannot have a fated mate for it.

I believe very much in strong partnership built on companionship and trust. And playfulness, compatibility and deep friendship as well as mutual lust.

I don't think that's any less beautiful or rare.

No I don't believe. But that doesn't mean I dont love or cherish someone else or don't want it to last a lifetime.

[CyberStud]

I believe in connections, that special bond you feel for another living being. We speak of friendship and/or love, of people who give out good vibes, who are on the same wavelength, of people who “light up a room.” All of these for me are examples of energy in motion. We are drawn to it. But every now and again there are people whose energy attracts us so instantly, so strongly, that it seems almost magical. We speak of an “instant connection” to another person. Whatever label you put on this energy source, soul mates, twin flames, the ying to my yang..it is undenial when it happens and what you put out there in terms of emotional energy will come back to you but only if you are 'tuned in'.

[~ocean]

I believe in connections, that special bond you feel for another living being. We speak of friendship and/or love, of people who give out good vibes, who are on the same wavelength, of people who “light up a room.” All of these for me are examples of energy in motion. We are drawn to it. But every now and again there are people whose energy attracts us so instantly, so strongly, that it seems almost magical. We speak of an “instant connection” to another person. Whatever label you put on this energy source, soul mates, twin flames, the ying to my yang..it is undenial when it happens and what you put out there in terms of emotional energy will come back to you but only if you are 'tuned in'.

I agree w/ u cyber :) and I would like to add that it's not just a romantic: a soulmate can be in a friend or family member as well. A spiritual connection ~

[SirenManda]

I do.

But not in the terms of "24/7 happiness never an argument just perfect" concept. I believe a soul mate is someone who creates a positive tide in your life. They push you to reach your goals and embrace your nature. I think its a feeling you get that reflects your soul finding it's other half. I do believe it can also be something you find in a friend. My husband is my soul mate, but my best friend also holds a soul mate status because of the same reasons.

[MysticOceansFL]

---------- Yep ------------

[EnchantedNightDweller]

Yes. :love1:

[*Anya*]

Thanks to Wiki:

In his dialogue The Symposium, Plato has Aristophanes present a story about soul mates. Aristophanes states that humans originally had four arms, four legs, and a single head made of two faces. He continues that there were three genders: man, woman and the "Androgynous". Each with two sets of genitalia with the Androgynous having both male and female genitalia. The men were children of the sun, the women were children of the earth and the Androgynous were children of the moon, which was born of the sun and earth. It is said that humans had great strength at the time and threatened to conquer the gods. The gods were then faced with the prospect of destroying the humans with lightning as they had done with the Titans but then they would lose the tributes given to the gods by humans.

Zeus developed a creative solution by splitting humans in half as punishment for humanity's pride and doubling the number of humans who would give tribute to the gods. These split humans were in utter misery to the point where they would not eat and would perish so Apollo had sewn them up and reconstituted their bodies with the navel being the only remnant harkening back to their original form. Each human would then only have one set of genitalia and would forever long for his/her other half; the other half of his/her soul. It is said that when the two find each other, there is an unspoken understanding of one another, that they feel unified and would lie with each other in unity and would know no greater joy than that.

My perspective:

I researched Wiki because I had wondered where the concept of a soul mate originally came from.

I like Plato's concept of unity.

I think that if one finds a love that complements the self, that is as close to a soul mate that one could hope for.

I have had relationships in which we were so much alike I often did not know where I ended and the other person began. My 19 year relationship was like that. By the time I finally ended it- I did not know who I was as a person anymore.

I believe it was more enmeshment than that of soul mates.

My current girlfriend and I are in love and I love her as a person.

I don't know that she is my other half. I don't really even know what that means any more.

We are so different in the things and ways that my long-term ex and I were so much the same.

We don't like the same movies, TV shows, books. We have philosophical arguments that are ridiculous sometimes.

We both have a terrible need to be right until we have to laugh (if we did not already piss each other off).

Where we do totally connect is in our mutual respect, values, beliefs, sexual attraction and love.

For me, that is unity that I can live with- without losing myself.

[Femmadian]

I don't think soulmates exist. I find the alternative is much more romantic.

For me, I think the concept of soulmates can be very seductive in that it kind of absolves us of responsibility for looking after our relationships, sticking it out in the tough times, trying to understand the aspects of our partner we might not otherwise want to understand, and it also allows us to more readily wash our hands of someone or something with the idea that "oh, if s/he were really the right one or if this were really the 'right' relationship, we wouldn't fight (or at least not this much) and it wouldn't be so hard. I guess we're not really 'meant to be.'" I think it also keeps us in relationships or with people with whom we otherwise might not (or should not) remain.

I think it's far more romantic to not have the belief in a soulmate but to give it a go anyway despite all the odds. To recognize each other's flaws, wake up each and every morning and make the conscious choice to love and be with someone, to acknowledge the fact that those initial giddy, feverish feelings of infatuation will eventually (and quite naturally) fade a bit with time and to be patient and aware enough to see and feel the deep, abiding love which replaces them... to make the decision to create a life together and respect and love each other as best you are able while accepting each other, warts and all... that, to me, is romantic.

I think the sticking point for me with the concept of soulmates (aside from, you know, being an atheist and all) is the idea of choosing vs being chosen. I want to be with someone who chooses me for who I am and what I am to them (and vice versa), how we mesh and who we are as a couple, and to not feel as though they think I was chosen for them according to some ethereal concept that neither of us can really adequately define. I need something concrete, tangible, and real. If you tell me you love me because the stars are aligned and you "just knew" upon meeting that I was "the one"... well, maybe that sounds nice in poetry and it works for some people but it doesn't really pass the smell test for me. If, however, you tell me you love me because you've seen me at my worst, now know my flaws, and you still want to be with me in spite of everything because you still get that ache when I walk through the door, to me that's love.
:heartbeat:

[imperfect_cupcake]

Anya that's fantastic.

After being married to someone who "understood everything about me" - for real - and had so much in common... That deep click...
It didn't matter.

And recently being challenged by someone... I loved it.

But this is really a great research study on those attitudes about "soul mates"
And how it reflects on a relationship

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-attraction-doctor/201207/why-you-shouldnt-believe-in-soul-mates

[JDeere]

IMO... no they do not exist!

[Blaze]

....Nope...
It's something that has to be worked at...
Just my opinion... I have yet to be proven wrong.
And I want to be proven wrong.

[Logicaly]

I feel like they do exist. In my opinion at least, its when you meet someone, and the click just happens, and things just happen naturally. I know some people say things shouldn't be effortless, but I feel like some things can be. Then before you know it, you two are together, and you don't even know when it happened, just that it did, and it was so natural, like breathing.

And when you are with that person, its amazing. The world doesn't stop spinning, in fact, the world starts spinning. Life even though it was good before, becomes even better, when you get to share it with the person whom you have connected with in such a way, that its a special, deep, intense, mind blowing bond.

The way they get you, understand you, participate in your life. They move, you move, you move, they move, and its all very fluid. They let your true self shine through, and it only enhances you.

Just my opinion.

[Play]

My possible soulmate just brought me blueberry pancakes and bacon in bed.

I do believe in soulmates, I just think we might not recognize immediately
when we've found one. Some sneak up on you, some come in guns blazing,
and some have been there all along.

For me a soulmate is that person who just "gets" me. Not to say there aren't
some obstacles to get over, under or around, just that they make you want to
work to overcome the obstacles. When I find someone who makes me want to
be a better person that speaks volumes to me. Mainly because I feel really
good about the person I am already.

Now I'm off to do an equally kind gesture for her.

Isn't that what it is all about?

[Bèsame*]

You won't believe until it happens. Then suddenly everything you thought you knew feels totally different. Feelings become alive. Emotions appear. Actions become effortless.

Thank you for bumping into me ♡

[rkim33]

I have not believed in such thing... Until I met her this summer. It was a very strange feeling, a feeling I have never had in my life.

It was as if I knew her for the longest time even though I barely knew her. We just connected in a very emotional and physical way. We shared many interests. She just made me into a much better person overall. She opened my eyes to new things and helped me see myself much more clearly.

It seems like story of soul mates never end well though and I wasn't able to dodge the bullet either...Perhaps we just met at the wrong place and the wrong time but the time we spent together I would not exchange for anything in the world.

I miss her daily and she will always be in my heart. I am however, moving on... no matter how painful it is =)

[Bèsame*]

....Nope...
It's something that has to be worked at...
Just my opinion... I have yet to be proven wrong.
And I want to be proven wrong.


Need more proof?

[Ginger]

IMO, a soul mate is someone who really "gets" you, sees your strengths without idealizing you and accepts your flaws without contempt.

Someone you can be yourself with, who makes it easy to be your best self.

On top of that, you share surface things with this person, like activities and aesthetics and ways of being in the world, not to mention, sexual energy.

I don't think everyone will experience that dynamic or have what we're calling a "soul mate."

I believe we do everything in our power to be open and true to ourselves etc. but there are things we aren't in control of, being in the right place at the right time to meet that person.

I don't mean to be negative, I just think that's the way it is. It's part of being alive, to accept this. IMO.

[puddin']

i believe a soul mate is not a sexual partner, per se. it can be but it's not mutually exclusive.

it is way beyond sexual, in my opinion.

[TIMBERWOLF]

I have looked for many years for my soul mate. And have dated a few but it wasn't until I quit looking for a couple of years ,that I realized that a very good friend that I loved as a friend for 12 yrs, was actually my Soul mate. We married 11/2-14 with no regrets . I love her with every being in me. We have actually been together since Aug,but it seems like just yesterday. Being married though seems like we have been together forever and don't know of another life before. I think that means she is my soul mate to me.

[Daniela]

i believe a soul mate is not a sexual partner, per se. it can be but it's not mutually exclusive.

it is way beyond sexual, in my opinion.

This is interesting...I've never heard anyone express that before.

But does this mean, then, that your soulmate could theoretically be your Mom or Dad? :|

[KayCee]

The 'thing' with your soulmate is that you just can't go out and try to find them somewhere.

No, you find EACHOTHER..out of nowhere and at the weirdest places and in times you would have never expected. And you just know in a split second even only after sharing a few thoughts.

You know they are your soulmate because they resemble everything and everybody to you.

They are your father, mother, sister, brother, your best friend and even your puppy dog you never really had.

They are the best lover because they just KNOW what you need, feel and think right in that moment.

They look in to your eyes and see YOU for what and who you are and accept you just the way you are. Your looks, the way you laugh, talk, your voice, mind..they adore everything about you although you're not at any means 'perfect'. It doesn't matter.

A soulmate guides you through life, criticizes where it's needed and reels you back in when go too far and out of line, but always in a loving, protective way and always for your own good.

They support you in anything you put your mind to, because they believe in you.

With a soulmate on your side you have a HOME for life, in your soul and in your heart, forever.

They give you wings to fly out to the world so you can thrive and become a better person for yourself, them, your life and their's....

....only to come back home to the warmth and security of their arms.

It's absolute unconditional love for as long as you both live..and beyond.

That's my soulmate.

[Blade]

I believe everyone has a soul mate. If I have come across mine yet, I was to stupid to know it. So I will continue to think positively that she is still out there waiting for me to find her, or maybe for her to find me.

[Tuff Stuff]

I suppose anything can exist..if you want it to.Many many years ago I believed in Soulmates..I truly believed he (yes He) was out there,somewhere.Do I believe he is still out there?,no..Do I believe she is out there?,no.
All I know is that I need love...and whoever offers me the kind of love i'm looking for,well,that's my soulmate.

What is love?...You Are There for Me.

Make sense?

[puddin']

This is interesting...I've never heard anyone express that before.

But does this mean, then, that your soulmate could theoretically be your Mom or Dad? :|


it means it could be anyone. anyone who challenges and believes in you i say...

[Gemme]

The 'thing' with your soulmate is that you just can't go out and try to find them somewhere.

No, you find EACHOTHER..out of nowhere and at the weirdest places and in times you would have never expected. And you just know in a split second even only after sharing a few thoughts.

You know they are your soulmate because they resemble everything and everybody to you.

They are your father, mother, sister, brother, your best friend and even your puppy dog you never really had.

They are the best lover because they just KNOW what you need, feel and think right in that moment.

They look in to your eyes and see YOU for what and who you are and accept you just the way you are. Your looks, the way you laugh, talk, your voice, mind..they adore everything about you although you're not at any means 'perfect'. It doesn't matter.

A soulmate guides you through life, criticizes where it's needed and reels you back in when go too far and out of line, but always in a loving, protective way and always for your own good.

They support you in anything you put your mind to, because they believe in you.

With a soulmate on your side you have a HOME for life, in your soul and in your heart, forever.

They give you wings to fly out to the world so you can thrive and become a better person for yourself, them, your life and their's....

....only to come back home to the warmth and security of their arms.

It's absolute unconditional love for as long as you both live..and beyond.

That's my soulmate.

I think this is a fantastic description of your version of a soul mate. I don't think that this exists outside of, as Mel said, TV and movies and the entertainment spin but I hope you find this person and that it feels this way to you.

My best friend growing up was a soul mate. We're not in touch anymore but she left an indelible mark on me and, during some really rough times, she supported and loved me without effort and thought. It just was. Without it and without her, I would have been lost.

I haven't been able to duplicate that feeling with a romantic partner but that's okay. I'm lucky to have experienced it once.

[femmeandstrong]

The way I see it... one has to be true to being the best friend possible to one's own soul...
there is no magical person who will need all my needs... crazy expectation... but there can be people who one can be forever connected with ...
but please not in a needy way...nooooo lol

[imperfect_cupcake]

I just don't particularly believe that someone was "meant" for me.
I'm a "hard" athiest, which means I don't believe in fate, lessons from the universe, pre-ordained meaning, souls or spirit.

Yes, I know and have met - and married - someone who got me on such a core level it was amazing. I also have two best mates - one of 27 years and one of 32 years - who are people who deeply get and understand me. It's rarely an effort to interact with them and I trust them completely.

My half brother was the deepest love I have ever had for anyone and the connection we had wont ever be repeated. We were like twins. We even looked like each other to a spooky level. Same laugh, same taste in music, same skills and interests, same haircut, same gayness, same filthy laugh and love of kink.

Buti still wouldn't call that soul mates because I don't believe in souls, so I don't believe people have pre-ordained partners matched to their souls but some universal force.
So I don't believe in soul mates. But I've had deeply meaningful, incredible depth of connection and love. I haven't missed out on that. I just don't think it has anything to do with souls or fate or pre-ordained meaning. So I don't believe in the concept of soul mates. I do know the depth of partnership exists.

[MsTinkerbelly]

I found mine, and I hope to always be with her....but even when we are not together, I feel her deep inside of me. Death or distance cannot change something that just "is".

[Smiling]

I don't believe in the concept of a soulmate; I believe in Karma.

But soulmate, like everything else, is just a word and is therefore only as meaningful (or meaningless) as any of us make it. Personally, I find that term very limiting - I think interrelationships of all beings are far more complex and beautiful than that word encompasses. :)

I firmly believe that if you move about in the world believing in whatever, then you are very likely to find all sorts of "proof" that whatever it is, is in fact, true.

Confirmation bias, I believe they call it.

[MysticOceansFL]

Yes it does exits!.......................

[Venus007]

I don't believe in soulmates in the traditional romantic relationship Disney/pop American culture interpretation. Meaning "the one", someone who is destined for you and you for them who will always magically know what you need and who will never wax and wane over time, your other half, so in synch is must be supernatural.

I think that is an unfair, unhealthy fantasy that sets people up to only have short to medium term relationships that ultimately leave them disappointed because it sets an impossible standard not based in the reality of human animal nature.

What I do believe in is that there are people who because of their life experiences, outlook, understanding, personality and desires match pretty closely with yours or even better beautifully compliment you and that gives rise to a connection and delicious frisson that together you tend, groom, and shape over time.

To me ultimate love is more of an ongoing piece of performance art rather than a divine intervention.

[Nattih]

Its something I think about often, but as of right now, I dont think so. I think it is warm and fuzzy to think about someone on the planet already waiting for us to just "happen" about and skip merrily into the sunset together. Seems really need and packaged in a way life just isnt.

I'm a big believer in being able to choose our own destiny, therefore I sway on the "no" side of the existence of a soulmate. I am willing to have my mind changed about it though.

[gotoseagrl]

I've spent so much time studying this topic. I believe that for some people having a soulmate is simply being with someone in a relationship that works out and lasts, which is fine. And for others (like me), a soulmate is more of a rare type you aren't sure that you will ever have the chance of meeting (until you do), a twin flame. Someone who is so unique that they have so many of the most uncommon things in common with you, along with weird coincidences and other signs that make you feel you would most likely never meet another who fits you so well.

The one who changes or adds to you and your life in the most positive ways because you value the same things and were already headed on the same path before you even met. They can be as different from you as they are the same, yet those differences turn out to be things that compliment each other naturally instead of distress you. For example, a writer and an artist who both always thought about doing picture books, but the writer doesn't draw and the artist doesn't like to write. They discover they can do amazing things together.

The one who makes everything better simply with their presence. The one with whom you have healthy happiness in ways that remain consistent and stand the test of time. Things aren't perfect, but the two of you go together so perfectly that you're able to make it through anything life brings. In my experience, all these things make someone a soulmate, and I do believe the saying "you just know" when you meet them. But I think it goes beyond that ... to knowing that being without them would truly be too devastating to even imagine. True soulmate is the one you don't let go of and the one who never lets go of you. It's never one-sided.

[Bubala]

I might be a desperate optimist, a childish silly dreamer but I still believe that yes, soulmates do exists! Some find them and some don't but somewhere in there world there's a perfect match for everyone out there... Am I crazy?

[starryeyes]

I never believed in one until I found her. Never had such a deep amazing connection with someone before... it's pretty special <3 :awww:

[kittygrrl]

do I believe? yes, probably..but that doesn't mean I believe it's smooth sailing...by my life experience, there is no such thing...but hopefully you can learn from your mistakes and at some point find that connection that will last well past a lifetime-:candle:

[JDeere]

Nope, no way no how, no way jose!

[Mel C.]

Totally.....in movies, books and television!

2 1/2 years later and I still think the same...kinda...or maybe not :bunchflowers:

[AmazonDC]

Being Native I don't think so in a sense of tv or movie kinda soul mate. I believe the creator makes us in pairs. and that other half of your being your "soul" is out there living life just like you and when you least expect it they show up.. For Me it's more about u explained connections... there have been people in My life who I thought could be but really were sent to Me to help along the path to better and more enduring connections... Eceryones perfect pair is out there somewhere just living life as you are and hopefully everyone finds that OMG connection. Just My opinion take it as it is lol

[TL1]

When in the moment it sure can feel like it. But no I don't believe it does.

[Chad]

I do not believe in soulmates, fate, or destiny.

When I meet someone with the same morals, values, and ideals as mine I pause to get to know them. Sometimes I find a life long friend and sometimes I find a partner but it is a choice not destiny.

[girl_dee]

Nope unless you consider my dog, who i think is my soulmate.

[~ocean]

yes they do :)

[Medusa]

Yes.

And that feeling of recognition when you look into their eyes or kiss them or just feel their presence. The thing where your soul sighs and says to itself, "Oh, I know you...and maybe I've known you in other lifetimes but I definitely know you".

The feeling of all the gears sliding smoothly in time before the soft *click* where the intricate and sometimes jagged edges of one another find their perfect position. The most delicate and specific puzzle piece that has only one match.

Yes, *that*.

[indigo]

It might depend on the concept of soulmate, what you think or expect such kind of mate to be or feel like. I don't have a specific person in mind that I'd consider my soulmate but there are situations in everyday life where I feel connected to people and we understand each other without words or we can perfectly relate to each others toughts and feelings.

[AmazonDC]

I think so....the creator made us in pairs and your pair is out there..

[JDeere]

Still feel the same, NOPE, it's all mumbo jumbo junk in my opinion and it's how I feel.

[Chad]

Still feel the same, NOPE, it's all mumbo jumbo junk in my opinion and it's how I feel.

I agree buddy.

[JDeere]

I agree buddy.

I didn't think that a lot of others felt the same LOL

:hangloose:

[Chad]

I didn't think that a lot of others felt the same LOL

:hangloose:

I do. The reality is that we meet folks and some are a good fit and some are not. I live in reality not fantasy. :)

[JDeere]

I do. The reality is that we meet folks and some are a good fit and some are not. I live in reality not fantasy. :)

Yes reality is good to live in, fantasy is just that fantasy!

[kittygrrl]

Yes.

And that feeling of recognition when you look into their eyes or kiss them or just feel their presence. The thing where your soul sighs and says to itself, "Oh, I know you...and maybe I've known you in other lifetimes but I definitely know you".

The feeling of all the gears sliding smoothly in time before the soft *click* where the intricate and sometimes jagged edges of one another find their perfect position. The most delicate and specific puzzle piece that has only one match.

Yes, *that*.

Really enjoyed reading this..I agree...until you have experienced it yourself...it's logical to be skeptical but be open...we are finite creatures and tend to live in the moment ...and if you don't believe it then you will most likely never find it

[IrishAmazon]

It might depend on the concept of soulmate, what you think or expect such kind of mate to be or feel like. I don't have a specific person in mind that I'd consider my soulmate but there are situations in everyday life where I feel connected to people and we understand each other without words or we can perfectly relate to each others toughts and feelings.

I agree here. I wonder if it's not just two halves but different charts of the same ... crystal we each offer a connection that is recognizable and known previously not always as a romantic partner sometimes a a true freind, not always some one for keeps but you discover a price of your self fro. Them that you forgot about or had not been introduced to previously.

[cathexis]

For me, a soulmate does indeed exist.

She is right next to me every morning. Wouldn't have believed it before I met Her. Usually, before believing something, it must meet scientific reason.

I am so glad She's in my life. It's not that we always agree with one another, but our spark is still there after 23 years in August. Arguing about topics is just another part of our dynamic. I have not had anyone (including both parents) who has been with me this long.

It's not that we merely love each other, we are still in love.

[Kätzchen]

Thanks to Wiki:

In his dialogue The Symposium, Plato has Aristophanes present a story about soul mates. Aristophanes states that humans originally had four arms, four legs, and a single head made of two faces. He continues that there were three genders: man, woman and the "Androgynous". Each with two sets of genitalia with the Androgynous having both male and female genitalia. The men were children of the sun, the women were children of the earth and the Androgynous were children of the moon, which was born of the sun and earth. It is said that humans had great strength at the time and threatened to conquer the gods. The gods were then faced with the prospect of destroying the humans with lightning as they had done with the Titans but then they would lose the tributes given to the gods by humans.

Zeus developed a creative solution by splitting humans in half as punishment for humanity's pride and doubling the number of humans who would give tribute to the gods. These split humans were in utter misery to the point where they would not eat and would perish so Apollo had sewn them up and reconstituted their bodies with the navel being the only remnant harkening back to their original form. Each human would then only have one set of genitalia and would forever long for his/her other half; the other half of his/her soul. It is said that when the two find each other, there is an unspoken understanding of one another, that they feel unified and would lie with each other in unity and would know no greater joy than that.

My perspective:

I researched Wiki because I had wondered where the concept of a soul mate originally came from.

I like Plato's concept of unity.

I think that if one finds a love that complements the self, that is as close to a soul mate that one could hope for.

I have had relationships in which we were so much alike I often did not know where I ended and the other person began. My 19 year relationship was like that. By the time I finally ended it- I did not know who I was as a person anymore.

I believe it was more enmeshment than that of soul mates.

My current girlfriend and I are in love and I love her as a person.

I don't know that she is my other half. I don't really even know what that means any more.

We are so different in the things and ways that my long-term ex and I were so much the same.

We don't like the same movies, TV shows, books. We have philosophical arguments that are ridiculous sometimes.

We both have a terrible need to be right until we have to laugh (if we did not already piss each other off).

Where we do totally connect is in our mutual respect, values, beliefs, sexual attraction and love.

For me, that is unity that I can live with- without losing myself.

I do.

But not in the terms of "24/7 happiness never an argument just perfect" concept. I believe a soul mate is someone who creates a positive tide in your life. They push you to reach your goals and embrace your nature. I think its a feeling you get that reflects your soul finding it's other half. I do believe it can also be something you find in a friend. My husband is my soul mate, but my best friend also holds a soul mate status because of the same reasons.

I don't think soulmates exist. I find the alternative is much more romantic.

For me, I think the concept of soulmates can be very seductive in that it kind of absolves us of responsibility for looking after our relationships, sticking it out in the tough times, trying to understand the aspects of our partner we might not otherwise want to understand, and it also allows us to more readily wash our hands of someone or something with the idea that "oh, if s/he were really the right one or if this were really the 'right' relationship, we wouldn't fight (or at least not this much) and it wouldn't be so hard. I guess we're not really 'meant to be.'" I think it also keeps us in relationships or with people with whom we otherwise might not (or should not) remain.

I think it's far more romantic to not have the belief in a soulmate but to give it a go anyway despite all the odds. To recognize each other's flaws, wake up each and every morning and make the conscious choice to love and be with someone, to acknowledge the fact that those initial giddy, feverish feelings of infatuation will eventually (and quite naturally) fade a bit with time and to be patient and aware enough to see and feel the deep, abiding love which replaces them... to make the decision to create a life together and respect and love each other as best you are able while accepting each other, warts and all... that, to me, is romantic.

I think the sticking point for me with the concept of soulmates (aside from, you know, being an atheist and all) is the idea of choosing vs being chosen. I want to be with someone who chooses me for who I am and what I am to them (and vice versa), how we mesh and who we are as a couple, and to not feel as though they think I was chosen for them according to some ethereal concept that neither of us can really adequately define. I need something concrete, tangible, and real. If you tell me you love me because the stars are aligned and you "just knew" upon meeting that I was "the one"... well, maybe that sounds nice in poetry and it works for some people but it doesn't really pass the smell test for me. If, however, you tell me you love me because you've seen me at my worst, now know my flaws, and you still want to be with me in spite of everything because you still get that ache when I walk through the door, to me that's love.
:heartbeat:

IMO, a soul mate is someone who really "gets" you, sees your strengths without idealizing you and accepts your flaws without contempt.

Someone you can be yourself with, who makes it easy to be your best self.

On top of that, you share surface things with this person, like activities and aesthetics and ways of being in the world, not to mention, sexual energy.

I don't think everyone will experience that dynamic or have what we're calling a "soul mate."

I believe we do everything in our power to be open and true to ourselves etc. but there are things we aren't in control of, being in the right place at the right time to meet that person.

I don't mean to be negative, I just think that's the way it is. It's part of being alive, to accept this. IMO.

I don't believe in the concept of a soulmate; I believe in Karma.

But soulmate, like everything else, is just a word and is therefore only as meaningful (or meaningless) as any of us make it. Personally, I find that term very limiting - I think interrelationships of all beings are far more complex and beautiful than that word encompasses. :)

I firmly believe that if you move about in the world believing in whatever, then you are very likely to find all sorts of "proof" that whatever it is, is in fact, true.

Confirmation bias, I believe they call it.

I don't believe in soulmates in the traditional romantic relationship Disney/pop American culture interpretation. Meaning "the one", someone who is destined for you and you for them who will always magically know what you need and who will never wax and wane over time, your other half, so in synch is must be supernatural.

I think that is an unfair, unhealthy fantasy that sets people up to only have short to medium term relationships that ultimately leave them disappointed because it sets an impossible standard not based in the reality of human animal nature.

What I do believe in is that there are people who because of their life experiences, outlook, understanding, personality and desires match pretty closely with yours or even better beautifully compliment you and that gives rise to a connection and delicious frisson that together you tend, groom, and shape over time.

To me ultimate love is more of an ongoing piece of performance art rather than a divine intervention.

Yes.

And that feeling of recognition when you look into their eyes or kiss them or just feel their presence. The thing where your soul sighs and says to itself, "Oh, I know you...and maybe I've known you in other lifetimes but I definitely know you".

The feeling of all the gears sliding smoothly in time before the soft *click* where the intricate and sometimes jagged edges of one another find their perfect position. The most delicate and specific puzzle piece that has only one match.

Yes, *that*.

I picked up and re--quoted other member opinions on whether they believe in if an soul mate exists.... I resonate with each member's thoughts.

Myself, though???

I don't know that, generally speaking about, an soul mate, as some people have described above, exists.

I mean, there are people in my life that have known me for years and we know each other soooo well, that we already know what the other is thinking. Does it mean they're a soul mate? I don't think so. I think it's a clear case of people knowing each other so well that it's highly unlikely that anything they say or do, will take us by surprise. It's just that we know each other really well.

I loved reading the post by Smiling, which spoke to Confirmation Bias. Right on, I totally get that concept and how it works. But, I also loved Ginger's idea about the idea that another person can love you and accept your flaws without contempt. I totally get the idea Medusa talks about, when all those tangible and intangible elements experienced by both parties and how they *click* into place. I just loved reading Venus007's process of understanding -- that ultimately love on progress is more like an work of art in progress, rather than divine intervention.

I don't know that I specifically buy into the idea of some person who turns out to be my "soul mate."

Here's what I think is more realistic, because we all have our own reality, as we learn and grow: I think that a loving relationship involves commitment, the ability to accept another for who they are and to commit to nurturing their romantic relationship in terms that will allow each party to know they are the number 1 priority in the other person's life.

Prioritizing for ourselves and giving the one we're in an romantic relationship with is not single handedly done on own own. Commitment toward preserving the relationship over time is probably the best investment in mutual happiness that any couple could do, and it takes lots of energy, lots of willingness to work cooperatively over the span of your romantic involvement/relationship.

I'm sure I've not said everything I could say or expressed all that is on my mind.

Here's to romance, love and dreams that come true. :rrose:

[kittygrrl]

Here's what I think is more realistic, because we all have our own reality, as we learn and grow: I think that a loving relationship involves commitment, the ability to accept another for who they are and to commit to nurturing their romantic relationship in terms that will allow each party to know they are the number 1 priority in the other person's life.

Prioritizing for ourselves and giving the one we're in an romantic relationship with is not single handedly done on own own. Commitment toward preserving the relationship over time is probably the best investment in mutual happiness that any couple could do, and it takes lots of energy, lots of willingness to work cooperatively over the span of your romantic involvement/relationship.

I'm sure I've not said everything I could say or expressed all that is on my mind.

Here's to romance, love and dreams that come true. :rrose:

exactly...two minds which meet and find synergy..I call it soulmate but it can be anything you want it to be..but it's a special something that is not fathomable (at times) and can provide endless delight and comfort..

https://sexinmiami.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/soul-mate.jpg

[gotoseagrl]

This is one of my favorite topics. One that I've spent years contemplating and listening to various perspectives about. I think the conclusion of my opinion is that a) no, there is not one for every person, but there are soulmates out there for people who yearn for one and believe they are meant to have one and b) there are different types of soulmates.

It's all varied. Some people are happy remaining alone and don't believe there is anyone they were meant to be with. Some have a soulmate, but can never be with them, so settle for a life partnership or just being alone. And some find who they believe is a soulmate, know it without doubt, and stay with them forever.

I believe the two types of people out there that end up staying together are either life partners or soulmates. I believe there are friend & family soulmates, which obviously stay platonic, and then there are the twin flames, which are one of the deepest most unique romantic bond.

I have 4 brothers, and there is one who is like my twin. We have scary things in common and are unique from society and others in ways that are ridiculously not common. We talk about it all the time.

I spent hours with one of my sister-friend soulmates on the beach this weekend, talking, playing in the sand and tearing up as we shared things & related in ways that are unique to us. We know that we, as we identify and as our hearts & souls are designed so similarly, are a rare breed and were definitely brought together by the universe to be in each others lives. We aren't just two women who met and got to know each other well. We are each Woman Type ABCDEFG, while most other women are just type A or B or C, etc. I have another sister-friend who is my soulmate in the same exact way. I couldn't make it through life without these beautiful angels who fit at my side like a jigsaw puzzle piece.

I have also dated people before who I knew could probably be a decent life partnership, but where I knew there were pieces missing that didn't match up the way they do with a twin flame soulmate. We get along fine, sure there are some pretty average things in common, and the relationship would probably be overall pretty good and healthy and steady. A good team. Secure. A safe bet. I think a lot of people either settle for or prefer this type of partnership instead of waiting for or believing in a soulmate.

And then there are twin flames. I have felt this type of connection. Where there is a fire in the heart and an anchor in the core of the soul. There are major and even small eerie ways we are a mirror reflection of each other ... ways that never matched with others and that you know never will again either. Those details, that are so aligned or the same that it's scary. For me, this is the person where we know each other inside and out, not just because we told each other, but because we are from the same mold and understand the best and most difficult things about each other without words explaining. There are no parts of ourselves we can even hide from the other. We will expose things about each other that we didn't want to ever face. We read each other's minds, have way too many scary coincidences and a super glue bond that, even if we can't be together or can't make a relationship work, will never be broken at the heart & soul level where it exists.

I don't think a soulmate is cultivated with time and getting to know each other and building up to it. I think it's those connections that are instant, inevitable, unspoken, unwavering, happen whether you like it or not or were ready/looking for it or not, and are unforgettable once the impact is made.

It is my twin flame soulmate who would receive my last phone call before I take my last breath.

I read a lot and hear so many different things. How the life partnerships are always the better way to go because they will last & are more like a security blanket. How the soulmate relationships can be too intense and have too many problems and aren't really meant to last forever. How some people stay with their life partner, all the while harboring a soulmate bond with someone else they can't be with, until they die. One of my favorite couples, Lucy & Desi, for example.

So yes, I do believe they exist (sometimes more than once). But no, not for everyone.

[gotoseagrl]

I think it could be when you meet someone and in less than 20 minutes they turn you upside down inside ... and you can't figure out why or make sense of it until later.

[Gemme]

I do. The reality is that we meet folks and some are a good fit and some are not. I live in reality not fantasy. :)

Yes reality is good to live in, fantasy is just that fantasy!

It seems to me that there's a way to say that you don't agree with the concept without saying it's not something real. That feels insulting to me. For some it is. For some it's not. No point in casting shadow on someone else's idea, if you don't believe the same.

[*Anya*]

I am still watching my DVR of VICE News from today.

I was also reading this thread at the same time.

On comes a piece about the Loving Supreme Court decision.

50 years ago today, the Supreme Court ruled in the decision of Richard and Mildred Loving.

They said that if two consenting adults chose to marry, race should not be a factor in the decision to marry.

There were excerpts from The Loving Story. Their lawyer said: "Mr. Loving told me to tell the court that I love my wife and it is unfair that I can't live with her in Virginia".

VICE asked several interracial couples today, to talk about what that decision meant to them.

One couple said: "We are not naive. I am not color-blind. It is not that black folks are not black folks and white folks are not white folks but this particular white folk is my soulmate and my best friend."

It really resonated with me.

When I first posted in this thread, in 2014, I was with my recent ex. I left that relationship because it was not good for me.

Most of us have had heartbreak related to loves that did not work out. It is a very painful part of life.

I still believe in love.

I still believe that one can meet the person that feels like recognition in the deepest part of your soul, that you are meant to be together.

Of course, the other may not feel the same way! That is always a risk.

Soulmates.

Yes, I do believe it is possible (or pretty darn close to that ideal).

:moonstars:

[Kätzchen]

I am still watching my DVR of VICE News from today.

I was also reading this thread at the same time.

On comes a piece about the Loving Supreme Court decision.

50 years ago today, the Supreme Court ruled in the decision of Richard and Mildred Loving.

They said that if two consenting adults chose to marry, race should not be a factor in the decision to marry.

There were excerpts from The Loving Story. Their lawyer said: "Mr. Loving told me to tell the court that I love my wife and it is unfair that I can't live with her in Virginia".

VICE asked several interracial couples today, to talk about what that decision meant to them.

One couple said: "We are not naive. I am not color-blind. It is not that black folks are not black folks and white folks are not white folks but this particular white folk is my soulmate and my best friend."

It really resonated with me.

When I first posted in this thread, in 2014, I was with my recent ex. I left that relationship because it was not good for me.

Most of us have had heartbreak related to loves that did not work out. It is a very painful part of life.

I still believe in love.

I still believe that one can meet the person that feels like recognition in the deepest part of your soul, that you are meant to be together.

Of course, the other may not feel the same way! That is always a risk.

Soulmates.

Yes, I do believe it is possible (or pretty darn close to that ideal).

:moonstars:

I remember this clearly as if it happened yesterday. I was just barely 8 years old.....Sunday afternoon diiner, at our family's home, guests too. It was the subject of discussion among adults present. As kids, we observed with great interest..... among those present at dinner, participating in the discussion, were those of a peculiar sort, whose bias was so incredibly hard to hear. But I was proud for them. And happy that they could be together when it was practically a social taboo that could cost you deeply. And even though I was just barely any age to hardly be interested in politics of any kind, I listened intently as if it were the best tasting candy in the world. I think this specific event is probably what brought about my life long pursuit and interest concerning racial injustice, and other types of social issues, over the years.

Thanks for the timely post, Anya. :rrose:

[Soft*Silver]

I dont believe in soul mates, persay. I believe we have connections from other times, either spiritually and/or genetically (there is a belief our past life memories are actually genetic memories we carry over in our genes

I do believe that some of these connections are larger than average love. But I believe thats because of the measure of the people, not that its a cosmic miracle.

I love large. I give it everything I have. I have had a few give back to me the same way. And some, well, missed their mark. But thats ok. I am loved SO well now and love this Love so deeply...

I no longer ponder if there is a god, or how big the universe is, or if there are soul mates. I live and love as tho the universe is ever expanding and let my love live up to that example to whoever I love at the moment...

[BullDog]

I don't necessarily believe specifically in the concept of soul mate for myself, but I have had some amazing, intense, out of this world connections with certain people - both romantic and platonic - that will always stay with me.

For me, true love is a decision and a commitment and not just a feeling. It encompasses the intense, the passionate, the uncanny and sometimes unexplainable connection with someone and evolves into something much more. It is moving past infatuation into love and staying there and allowing it to grow and growing along with it with your beloved. Love that stands the test of time, that is what truly matters to me.

[Gráinne]

The short answer: No, not really.

The long answer: I do believe we have souls. I don't believe that we're "missing" someone, or have another "half" of us out there somewhere and we have to search around for that. I'm complete, right now, don't need a mate of any kind. (Whether or not I want companionship is a different story, but that's a want, not need.)

I don't really believe in a soul mate meant to stay in your life forever. Yes, I realize there are couples married for 60 years, and I don't know how to reconcile my belief to that. Maybe it's different for each person. Anyway, for me, I believe that certain people come into our lives to teach us something, to help us grow, or to somehow impact our life. Once that's done, they leave. Not always, but that's my experience. And "leaving" isn't necessarily a bad breakup, more like a recognition that you're at a crossroads with different paths.

So to me, we have "soul lessons", multiple, throughout our lives. They're not necessarily a romantic thing.

[BullDog]

I don't think soulmates exist. I find the alternative is much more romantic.

For me, I think the concept of soulmates can be very seductive in that it kind of absolves us of responsibility for looking after our relationships, sticking it out in the tough times, trying to understand the aspects of our partner we might not otherwise want to understand, and it also allows us to more readily wash our hands of someone or something with the idea that "oh, if s/he were really the right one or if this were really the 'right' relationship, we wouldn't fight (or at least not this much) and it wouldn't be so hard. I guess we're not really 'meant to be.'" I think it also keeps us in relationships or with people with whom we otherwise might not (or should not) remain.

I think it's far more romantic to not have the belief in a soulmate but to give it a go anyway despite all the odds. To recognize each other's flaws, wake up each and every morning and make the conscious choice to love and be with someone, to acknowledge the fact that those initial giddy, feverish feelings of infatuation will eventually (and quite naturally) fade a bit with time and to be patient and aware enough to see and feel the deep, abiding love which replaces them... to make the decision to create a life together and respect and love each other as best you are able while accepting each other, warts and all... that, to me, is romantic.

I think the sticking point for me with the concept of soulmates (aside from, you know, being an atheist and all) is the idea of choosing vs being chosen. I want to be with someone who chooses me for who I am and what I am to them (and vice versa), how we mesh and who we are as a couple, and to not feel as though they think I was chosen for them according to some ethereal concept that neither of us can really adequately define. I need something concrete, tangible, and real. If you tell me you love me because the stars are aligned and you "just knew" upon meeting that I was "the one"... well, maybe that sounds nice in poetry and it works for some people but it doesn't really pass the smell test for me. If, however, you tell me you love me because you've seen me at my worst, now know my flaws, and you still want to be with me in spite of everything because you still get that ache when I walk through the door, to me that's love.
:heartbeat:

I went back to read the earlier parts of the thread, and this is years old but it really did resonate with me.

I believe in true love, I am a die hard romantic, I believe you can have amazing, inexplicable connections with people (both romantic and platonic) and ones where things all seem to click into place. Also, I have always wanted to find my one true love and be with her for the rest of my life.

I also believe love is a choice and a commitment and something you do every day. I can't read anyone's mind or know exactly how someone else thinks at all times. But I can choose to love and choose to value my relationship and nurture it and experience our love as it deepens and grows.

It is a fascinating topic.

[Shystonefem]

Yes, I believe that Soul Mates exist.

That being said, Soul Mates don't have to have a romantic connection.

I have met people where I recognized them, without knowing them.

I think that would mates are people / souls you know on the other side and/or people you have known in past lives.

I think my middle son and I are soul mates because, to me, I feel like I have known him forever, even before he was born.

I also think there is something called Karmic Souls. I believe they are here to teach us a lesson and move on. Some people call these souls Twin Flames. To me, these are the ones that you don't bother with ever again.

Just MHO

[pumpndude]

I definitely believe in soulmates....

I have two soulmate friends and we all know there's something more than
our friendship , their is a heart felt connection or a connection greater than ourselves....

I wish I could find my soulmate future wife or her find me....but if not taking my time and spending a lot of time with my family...:hangloose:

[TL1]

Short answer.... No.

You're young and fall in love and you feel like that person is your "soul mate".

It doesn't work out.

Later.......

You fall in love and you feel that's your soul mate.

Doesn't work out.

I believe in love and happiness. Love can feel very intense and powerful. I believe long term relationships can work. But I do not believe in soul mates.

[Tuff Stuff]

I suppose anything can exist..if you want it to.Many many years ago I believed in Soulmates..I truly believed he (yes He) was out there,somewhere.Do I believe he is still out there?,no..Do I believe she is out there?,no.
All I know is that I need love...and whoever offers me the kind of love i'm looking for,well,that's my soulmate.

What is love?...You Are There for Me.

Make sense?

Have I soften up since? or gotten harder?? *shrugs*
I guess i'm back to believing in Soulmates.I married for love,and that's what I got..but something is still missing.

[imperfect_cupcake]

Depends on how you define Soul Mate.

Does it mean "someone who understands me, loves me, clicks with me, and sticks by me for decades"? then yes. I have a few of those. They are friends I've had for over 30 years. Also, my half brother, who died about 17 years ago.

I don't personally believe in souls so the definition has to be explained to me in a different way... someone who gets the core of me? touches deep parts of me? loves them? Well, I'd say most of my partners *DID*. Just because it wasn't for ever doesn't me the love was fake. I really loved them. They really loved me. They totally understood and got me. It was just our dynamics that didn't work. Our behaviours and patterns and acting out. So who's to say ALL of them weren't?

My ex wife I loved more than all of them put together, though. But is intensity of feeling proof of ... what? Still didn't work because of dynamics. Nothing is perfect.

My friendships have taken a lot of work over 30+ years and a lot of patience and eyerolling and just letting things be and accepting shit or it won't work. And knowing when to work and when to just let it be.

I believe in chemistry, imprinting when young, social imprinting in your core group as you come of age, understanding things as a teen and early 20s seems to really "sit". I still carry the core beliefs of that - that's why I'm still friends with my friends.

And why I don't "click" with mainstream north american socially conservation traditional beliefs around romance and dating. I wasn't raised with it, so I don't "get" it. I was only introduced to it when I went gay and started dating American butches.

So when I meet those who "get" that same view point as me that *don't* come from my back ground, and they share my irreverent humour... I get excited we are working with the safe platform and understanding - that click.

Soul mate... being understood, respected, loved, "gotten", with shared vision/values. Yeah, luckily, I've had several. :) and many are my friends

[girl_dee]

i’ll know in the end.

[kittygrrl]

imperfect cupcake, said it perfectly, (for where i am)at this point, in my life :tea:

[cutegrrl]

This article may be helpful...

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2016/03/how-to-tell-if-a-relationship-is-karmic-soulmate-or-twin-flame/

[AmazonDC]

I sure hope so .. other wise whats the point.. I do enjoy the journey ...

[AmazonDC]

This article may be helpful...

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2016/03/how-to-tell-if-a-relationship-is-karmic-soulmate-or-twin-flame/

great article ty for sharing

[homoe]

This article may be helpful...

https://www.elephantjournal.com/2016/03/how-to-tell-if-a-relationship-is-karmic-soulmate-or-twin-flame/

I did enjoy this article HOWEVER unless I missed it, it really doesn't tell us how WE can really distinguish between the two in our mind. I'm sure at least some have thought the karmic relationship mate was our soulmate.

[~ocean]

referring back to my original response # 22 ~ I still feel the same way to me it's a spiritual connection ~ not always romantic ~ mate is 1 of a matched pair ~ sounds like friendship as well : to me. lol it seems to be just as hard to find that special soul friend as it is in a spouse ~ appreciate who has or will be in your life ~ however long we have together is a gift :) there's nothing in the words soul mate that indicates physically together forever ~ the soul owns that ~ " a wink and a smile wanna mate " ~

[PlatinumPearl]

Everyone has a Soulmate and we can have more than one in a lifetime.

Some would say that Soulmates are an important part of our journey to self-actualization, to becoming our most genuine and authentic self which will help you grow and evolve into your fullest potential.

When you meet your soulmate, you will have a sense of ease and comfort, like you have known them in a past life. Those that have met their Soulmate have the belief and have said they were fated to be together.

A Soulmate can take the form of friends, lovers, even family members. The energetic connection between soul mates is more powerfully felt than with others.

So, yes, they do exist and you probably already have met more than one. :stillheart:

A Twin Flame is very rare! and Spiritualists will say not everyone will get to meet theirs in this lifetime.

[cutegrrl]

I did enjoy this article HOWEVER unless I missed it, it really doesn't tell us how WE can really distinguish between the two in our mind. I'm sure at least some have thought the karmic relationship mate was our soulmate.



"As the theory states, twin flames were separated from one soul source in the beginning of time and split into two physical bodies.

There is a mirror like quality when we come into contact with our twin flame—everything that we have spent our lives running from or denying is suddenly in front of us.

These types of lovers confront us with our very fears and ego driven desires, but they aren’t just about what’s inside, they’re about how we interact with every facet of our life.

Not all of us will be reunited with our twin flame, but if we are, it has the possibility to be that once in a lifetime—ain’t nothing ever gonna be the same—type of love.

There will be challenges and fears present, without a doubt—there will be phases of running and chasing, depending upon the spiritual and personal development of both individuals.

But regardless of any of these challenges, it is possible to reunite and stay with our twin flame—although it is speculated that only occurs in one’s last lifetime here on earth.

Regardless of what type of romantic relationship we find ourselves in, there will be obstacles and challenges that have the potential to assist us in our growth and evolution."



A twin flame is one soul split in half and in two bodies. You will know when you meet your twin flame because that person will be a mirror of yourself. A twin flame relationship is not easy for obvious reasons.

[imperfect_cupcake]

Well... Since time started in this particular universe 13.7 billion years ago, as far as we know right now (could change), and the planet is only 4.5 billion years old... and single cell life started 3.5 billion years ago (something to put souls into), that must have been a bit of a wait.

So I guess under that definition of one thing splitting into two and thus only one other that is also me - No. I don't believe that at all, as a literal definition.

however, if it's meant as a metaphor as those who feel like mirror selves - yes. I do know that sensation. I've had it twice. And both times it was terrifying/awesome/electric/crazy: when I met my half brother and when I first got together with my ex-wife.

Losing both destroyed me in different ways. Zack dying felt like the person who was supposed to be with me my entire life without question, with friendship, loyalty, understanding, my male twin... left. Just buggered off. Thanks for that. I felt totally abandoned by him dying. I felt utterly alone in a dimension I can't articulate because no one had ever occupied that space before.

And when my ex-wife left, I fell apart. Because she also felt like a mirror. A butch me, a butch me from a different world. She seriously got me in ways only long term best friends did and she just got there instinctively.

So yes, in the metaphoric sense sure.

But literal? No, because I don't believe in that mythology.

[Signmypapyrus]

I was talking with a friend of mine who has his PhD in evolutionary biology: technically no animal is monogous. Humans have constructed that narrative to fit romanticized ideals. That being said, I also know shamans who live with animals who have emotionally filfulled lives with animals (do the animals reciprocate? Who knows). Lichen live symbiotically so... I don’t believe in soul mates, but I wonder how we project (or orient?) desire due to our own existence in the world.

The closest thing I’ve had to the definitional soul mate was a horse I had. I don’t personally want a human soul mate.

[girl_dee]

Nope unless you consider my dog, who i think is my soulmate.

i may have to retract my previous statements on this subject.

[WheatToast]

i may have to retract my previous statements on this subject.

The first part is to set the stage for my beliefs about soulmates:

I follow Quantum Physics and other spiritual sciences, and I believe every human is made up of 1/4 brain/intellect; 1/4 heart/love & emotions; 1/4 physical body and 1/4 soul--which is our headquarters for spiritual guidance.
Some call their soul God, or others call it higher power, Jesus, Moses, Allah, the Almighty, the creator, Yahweh, The Holy Spirit, Lord, Brahman, Buddha, Ganesha, Shiva, Vishnu, Muhammad, HaShen (G-d), and native Americans may call it Gitche Manitou.
The spirit quadrant can become spectacular and immeasurably helpful to our lives, and all you have to do to enlarge it is express gratitude to God when you pray or meditate, and don't ask for shit like he's Santa. Instead of, "God, I want a new Lexus." You say, "God, please give me the guidance I need to get a new Lexus. Thank you. Amen."

The human functions smoothly in life when all four squares are equal in strength, but when we get tired and run down, the intellect and body go haywire, then we get emotionally fussy and we forget all about the spirit quadrant, the place where we can go and say, "I can't, God can, I'm gonna let him handle it."
I think a lot of us function on a higher plane at times (psychics, telepaths, healers, shamans, some clergy members, native Americans, clairvoyants, clairsentients, gemstone healers, and people with extra sensory perception. (ESP or Sixth Sense).
In Quantum Physics, we all are made up of tiny particles that blow out of our bodies and go back into the universe when we die. The info stored in the particles survives.

A soulmate is someone who comes along and communicates with you on a higher plane, which excites your spirit and basically ups your spiritual game.
Because we humans can simultaneously function on lower planes, even when spirit is present, often when the psychic vibration (soulmate) appears, we think, "She is going to be such a hot fuck!"
And though she may be good in bed, her mission is actually the process of stimulating your spiritual quadrant, because that quadrant has some mad skillz with blessings, strength of character, faith, compassion-- the more we learn about the free stuff available from spirit, the more tools we get for living harmoniously.

I've been blessed with many soulmates. It's also called, "spirit meeting spirit."
Once I was in Dallas, marching with a huge crowd in their Gay Pride parade. Through the throngs of people, I noticed a woman who was so handsome she was beautiful. She had a profile like a Greek God.
It turned out she was a big mover and shaker in the Dallas gay community, and I'd heard of her but never met her. Still, I walked right up to her and said, "This may sound weird but I'd like to tell you about your life from today to the near future. Do you mind?" She wasn't shocked at all, because it was spirit meeting spirit. She said, "Sure."
I told her that her partner (the great granddaughter of a U.S. president and richer than King Midas) was overshadowing her and it was getting to the point where it would have to result in a split. And though the prospect of walking away from the Governor of Texas Lesbians may be daunting, she would soon break it off. Her life would soar to the heavens once she was free, I said.
I got a postcard from her a few weeks later-- and everything came true. I was her soulmate for the time it took to march the parade route. I haven't seen her since.

When a new couple meets and get sexually involved right off the bat, and that phase peters out quickly but they stay the best of friends platonicly, they are probably soulmates.

That too-friendly ex of your latest girlfriend who's always hanging out with your girl--she's what I call a disruptive soulmate. She is functioning from a lower plane if she notices how her presence causes drama between you and your girlfriend, and shrugs it off.
She doesn't want her back sexually, but she and your girlfriend cannot function without occasionally trading some sizzling, electrified, metaphysical particulants.
A strong psychic connection can stimulate all the body' chakras, so that feeling of having so much psychic energy can blow that root chakra wide open. Be careful.

Simply put, a soulmate comes along to stimulate your spirit, and to receive the same from you. It is highly exciting, but the person may be on a short mission and can disappear quickly, so cherish her for as long as you can.

And don't get it twisted, you naughty girls.:hk14:

Elisabeth Strelii gewidmet, mein Seelenverwandter, werde ich nie vergessen.

[Greco]

"I believe some people are less connected then others."

Greco

[WheatToast]

"I believe some people are less connected then others."

Greco

Most definitely!
Here is all I know for sure, and it doesn't have to be true for all.

1. I believe I have a soul.
2. My soul has met other souls, and we communicated on the plane, so I consider them soulmates.
3. Soulmates come and go.
4. I met a woman a long time ago and fell deeply in passionate love. I thought she was my soulmate, but I was mistaken. I also thought passion was love. I was mistaken there, too.
5. The moral of the story is:

A. Passion is nice
B. Love is nice.
C. Soulmates are nice.
But they are not the same things, and they're all usually separate from each other.

[~ocean]

Most definitely!
Here is all I know for sure, and it doesn't have to be true for all.

1. I believe I have a soul.
2. My soul has met other souls, and we communicated on the plane, so I consider them soulmates.
3. Soulmates come and go.
4. I met a woman a long time ago and fell deeply in passionate love. I thought she was my soulmate, but I was mistaken. I also thought passion was love. I was mistaken there, too.
5. The moral of the story is:

A. Passion is nice
B. Love is nice.
C. Soulmates are nice.
But they are not the same things, and they're all usually separate from each other.



I agree ~ I never confuse aching loins ( passion ) with love anymore lolololol

[girl_dee]

I agree ~ I never confuse aching loins ( passion ) with love anymore lolololol

Aka a lustmance!

[kittygrrl]

there are heart things which leave an indelible mark on your soul and however you try to remove it, it remains steadfast & true.

[WheatToast]

I agree ~ I never confuse aching loins ( passion ) with love anymore lolololol

My loins are troublemakers!:jester:

[FireSignFemme]

Troublemakers should be punished.

[WheatToast]

Troublemakers should be punished.

apparently many join you in that assessment. :|

[Greco]

So very True.

Greco

there are heart things which leave an indelible mark on your soul and however you try to remove it, it remains steadfast & true.

[~ocean]

New TV Series~ "The Naughty Loins Show " lol Exclusively on LOGO !

[JDeere]

I now know yes they do exist, except in my world, soulmates do not mean who you are married to, dating, etc.

My dog is one of my soulmates, my best friend from high school is my soul mate.

There are different forms but all in all, the form is LOVE!

[cathexis]

Yes, soulmates exist, and I was very lucky to have found Her 25 years ago. We tell people when they ask us that we not only love one another, but are still in love which are two different sets of emotions.

My Partner and I will celebrate our Silver Anniversary together this coming September.

[cutegrrl]

Bumping this thread...

[Orema]

I don’t think we have soul mates but I’m not sure. And it doesn’t bother me either way. I’m able to live a good life even if I don’t meet my soul mate, if one exists.

I think the chances of finding a soul mate among so many chioces is almost impossible.

And if there are soul mates I wonder if we’re limited to one?

I guess I have more questions than answers.

[Stone-Butch]

I don't know if there is or not. I hope if there is I find her before this trip is over. Sounds like a nice thing.

[MaddieRobbie]

I never really warmed up to the term "soulmate". Reason is - and this is strictly my opinion - it surrenders too much of a relationship to fate. I believe in chemistry, in the joy of being known, and sharing a deep, unique connection - plus a little bit of luck - but after those things we need to work really hard to keep it alive.

"Soulmate" always seemed too passive to me. Or an excuse to not stick around and see where things could go with someone, you know?

[~ocean]

I do believe in a soulmate ~ if your lucky enough to have one in your life . My personal opinion is that a soulmate has no boundaries ~ it's that one person you can be totally be uninhibited with ~ the comfort zone is a feeling that's required and enjoyed by both people. A love that's never questioned ~ it's just there . That desire you have knowing that your love emotionally and physically is sexy ~

[kittygrrl]

Do they exist? yes
Will i recognize her? depends
Do i have more then one? hopefully:praying:

[PlatinumPearl]

(Copying kitty's format, thanks :))


Do they exist?
Yes, they sure do.

Will I recognize her/them?
Yes, and I have. A soulmate is so very different from a karmic.

Do i have more then one?
We apparently have 7 soulmates so don't get stuck on the one you thought got away, let them go so another can enter into your human experience.


Soulmates are not just romantic connections they can be friends, family members, relatives, co-workers, your pet or someone elses pet. You can meet them at a restaurant, grocery store, at the gym or elsewhere and when that moment happens your soul will instantly recognize them even if it's for a brief moment, that was a fated event planned and agreed upon before birth for a reason only both of your souls know. :stillheart:

[kittygrrl]

Uoh838WDgssSpeaking romantically...i don't believe you have several... we belong in pairs...it's not like a grocery store where you just pick up a spare...you can have several friends you may travel through time with..but only one lover...and when she's not there, you don't have the inclination (or the stomach) for something else..although you may try

[kvedd]

Does a soulmate actually exist? I'm not sure, maybe soul connections but soulmates might be a stretch.

[kittygrrl]

Everything
lnc2ljZA3bk

[kittygrrl]

TOE

Vi0LCRtU7Ow

tell me i'm wrong ..

[kittygrrl]

https://scontent-ord5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/369726956_255167857413160_8684753725295247395_n.jp g?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=49d041&_nc_ohc=pRGw2GAPAg4AX9fHWAP&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-1.xx&oh=00_AfDmSqm9obDRQSNeXSK0U-X7jybgEq-a0TJyDB_Z-IoMPw&oe=6516FDA9

[kittygrrl]

https://scontent-ord5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/392939627_287250257538253_8924056115442274051_n.jp g?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=5f2048&_nc_ohc=50tSm_-M4hsAX-bV9IA&_nc_ht=scontent-ord5-2.xx&oh=00_AfC8AT9T6RR5RoWduW3YeudSlx1641oXeANzzy-yXrfFKg&oe=6536BE3B

[Gemme]

.......
My best friend growing up was a soul mate. We're not in touch anymore but she left an indelible mark on me and, during some really rough times, she supported and loved me without effort and thought. It just was. Without it and without her, I would have been lost.

I haven't been able to duplicate that feeling with a romantic partner but that's okay. I'm lucky to have experienced it once.

It's been a few years and some things have changed for me. One, my childhood bestie and I have reconnected and it's really nice to check in with one another again. Also, I found a later in life bestie who feels very similar to my childhood bestie even though she's young enough to be my child. Maybe she fulfills the wild, ride or die friend the girl in me always wanted. Either way, I'm so lucky to have these ladies in my life, even if it's from afar. They are invaluable sources of levity and therapy for my currently extremely stressful and chaotic life and match perfectly to very different facets of myself.

Looking back, and if I'm being brutally honest with myself, I had stronger connections with one of my dogs and four of my cats than I did with most other human beings (the two besties excluded). Romantically, I've truly loved and been loved back, but none of those relationships reached the same level of connection that I associate with a soul connection, although at the time, I felt differently. Hindsight is absolutely 20/20.

So, do soulmates exist? Sure, why not. I believe that soul connections exist, so why can't there be a match of some sort floating around this Universe? It doesn't mean that these connections will come through in the manner you might expect though.

When I remember feeling all the things that I attach to the sentiment of a soulmate....feeling safe...important...respected...wanted (not sexually)...cared for....loved...I think of my friend taking me in after my miscarriage and marriage fell apart...of my friend showing up unannounced with a plate of food on a holiday even though I turned down her invite because I was really struggling with--everything--and didn't want to have to put on a happy face for her family...of my beloved Brodie, whose favorite thing was when I walked around holding him like a baby (miniature Irish Setter who'd place his paws around my waist and under my arms and then close his eyes and rest his head on my shoulder and sigh like he was fully content...and then there are my felines....two girls and two boys...so many snuggly, loving memories of them but I used to wonder if my last boy, Loki, was Brodie reincarnated. The way he'd look at me like I was the best thing in this world and his need to be as close to me as possible just like Brodie did made that thought cross my mind many a night.

If one doesn't get hung up on the image that the media portrays as what a soulmate is or is not, I believe that we all have had a person or a creature at one point or another that made us feel all the things one might associate with soulmates. It just depends on the lens that you are looking through, I suppose.