how do you feel about the term partner? it seems like a lot of people don't like it because it feels sort of aseptic and disassociated.
i kind of like it, actually. i mean for one, i like it politically, since it's nonspecific regarding gender and sexuality. but also, it think it's a good term to describe someone you're in a serious relationship with - you're committed to helping each other's lives. you're going through things together. life is scary, a partner sounds good to me. the buddy system, man. it's all about the buddy system.
i still haven't switched my vocabulary over, but it's something i'd like to do.