Situation: Cassandra is always on time for any event she attends. She thinks it is rude to be late and possibly make people wait on her. She is married to Gene who has no concept of time. He is late for nearly everything. It is a wonder he has ever kept a job! If they go somewhere together, Cassandra has to remind Gene hours ahead of time and usually they are not very late.
Lessons learned: This is not a small characteristic! You need to know the 'time' style of anyone you may marry. Could you deal with a person the opposite of you? This is very, very difficult!
Once I read research on the 'time' style of American college students versus that of their South American counterparts. The average American was on time for class, was mildly engaged in the subject, and might stay a little longer afterwards to discuss the topic with professor and the other students but usually left on time. In contrast, the average South American student was incredibly late, very engaged with the subject, and stayed for a long time after class. Really, it is what it is! I'm not sure anyone could significantly change his or her 'time' style.
I, personally, had a military dad who taught my brothers and me not only to be on time, but to be early! Dad said, "Figure out where you're going, think of what obstacles may be on the way, such as a railroad crossing, and add extra time, then you'll never be late." We really like our soldiers, doctors, police, firemen and other critical people to be on time!
Outcome: Cassandra and Gene are still very much in love and happily married. Not every one could do as well!
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