Some sources say we each have a special soul mate. Others say that there are many people who are "right" for us -- perhaps at different times in our lives. When people had shorter life spans, there was less chance that they would grow in different directions. (Also, although no one that I know of has written this -- less chance that they'd get on each other's nerves. LOL).

There is a special feeling. Poets have written about it, musicians compose music about it, and wars have been fought over love.

I am still in love with my ex-husband. It was a passionate and stormy relationship. We have been divorced for 30 years. I think I was stupid not to have tried harder. I was with another man for 15 years. I loved him, but I was never in love with him. The relationship was healthier in many ways than my marriage. Certainly, it was calm and comfortable. I never dreamed that he would leave me. The feeling of security in the relationship was a big part of why I loved him. Then he left me abruptly. I was clueless. Now I wonder if I sacrified a big part of my life because I wanted to feel safe. Because, in fact, there are no guarantees.

I think you'll know when it's the one.
I surely have no answers.