A researcher at the University of Western Ontario determined that when considering friends or romantic partners, a similar genetic profile made up about a third of the selection criteria. We may think subconsciously that people who are genetically similar work better together. Consequently, we look for physical or emotional cues that tell us that this potential friend, husband, or wife is genetically similar to us.
Over 40 years ago Sharon Enarson was dating a fellow she considered “good looking and wild”. The attraction was mutual, as both liked to work hard and play hard. “When we were younger we’d work all day, then around nine in the evening, we’d head out to dance all night long,” She said. Sharon married her wild and good looking fellow. Together she and her husband Richard have spent a lifetime together. “We haven’t settled down, we’ve just slowed down, “she laughed.
The Enarsons have been involved in farming and trucking all their married life. Having raised two children on their farm in Iowa, the couple now resides on a farm in southern Missouri. Together they have farmed, worked in factories, and driven truck together. Beginning in 1999, they leased their truck to National Carriers. Splitting time between the farming and driving, Sharon slowly started spending more time at home. She now stays at home tending the horses and cows as Rich runs freight from Chicago, IL, to Jonesboro, AR, each week.
“Rich is the most thoughtful and caring person I know,” Sharon shares. “I used to get frustrated at him for being so unselfish. He’d go help the neighbor with his farm chores while putting his own work off. He will help others at his expense, but that is how Rich is: self- sacrificing.
When he was 15-years-old, Rich was involved in a farm accident that severed and mangled his fingers on his right hand. While repairing the porch on their Missouri farmhouse, Sharon accidently amputated her left pinkie finger. While both accidents were tragic, Rich and Sharon have found humor with their situation. “We can give each other high fours and cut expenses by sharing a pair of work gloves,” Rich quipped.