Compatibility© Michele KayD
Aug 8, 1997
The following terms, according to Webster's thesaurus, are synonymous with being "compatible":
consistent, agreeing, conforming, accordant, congruous, harmonious, constant, cooperative...
Plumlee, of Heart to Heart Introductions, defines compatibility as "two people who can communicate; share major likes and dislikes; are motivated by the same goals and philosophies; are stimulated by similar wants and desires; but, above all, can co-exist in harmony." In my opinion, compatibility is the foundation of an enduring, loving relationship. It is all of the above, plus. "The Attraction Factor," as I've addressed in a previous article, is important on the physical, emotional and mental levels. Compatibility works in much the same way; it essentially requires each level to exist together to form a solid bond of love. According to The Aquarian Source (1996) "The foundation of any happy and fulfilling relationship is built upon three areas of compatibility":
Emotional — true feelings of the couple (ie. being able to intuitively understand the other's feelings)
Intellectual — communication; expressing thoughts and ideas
Physical — energy levels of the couple; sex drives; physical attractionWhether a couple is truly compatible or not is based upon deeper elements of each partner's character. These include interests/personal motivations, values/beliefs, lifestyle patterns, tolerance level, goals, emotional needs, romantic nature, etc. The qualities which make us each individual also are the factors which we seek in a partner. This does not necessarily mean we look for a mate with exactly the same qualities as ourselves, but those that will complement what's most important to us. Many believe compatibility can be best seen in "the cosmos." The two most prominent methods of charting compatibility through astrology are:
Sun Sign Compatibility — general, basic starting point which compares the Zodiac elements (earth, water, air, fire) of the couple's sun signs. Basically, if one partner is a Cancer (water sign) and the other partner is an Aries (fire sign), then the relationship is generally seen to be "incompatible." This is based upon the notion that water puts out fire. Yet, just as air fuels a flame, an air sign (such as Gemini) would be viewed as "compatible" with a fire sign. Keep in mind, however, that too much air can just as easily banish that flame. Thus, it's safe to say that any combination of signs can only be as compatible as the two souls who form it.
Synastry (a.k.a. "Relationship Astrology") — compares natal and birth charts of two individuals to determine their potential compatibility levels. This is a stronger, more complete tool which takes into account the entire person (physically, emotionally, and intellectually). The birth chart is of particular interest since it reveals the basic tendencies (likes and dislikes included) as well as needs and wants in a relationship.
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