Comparison And Contrast: Aunt And Uncle Essay, Research Paper

Aunt and Uncle Through a Niece’s Eyes

The old axiom “opposites attract” certainly seems true in regard to my aunt and uncle. Despite a physical resemblance, their differences outnumber their likenesses. The most distinctive differences are in their childhood backgrounds, political views, and personalities. They were born two months apart and in their late fifties, my aunt and uncle resemble each other. They both have silver colored streaks in their black hair. They are both under the average height.

The childhood backgrounds of my aunt and uncle were defiantly unalike. My aunt lived only in the city growing up, although my uncle grew up on a farm. My aunt was the first of her family to graduate from high school; Uncle George went to work immediately after finishing the ninth grade at a rural school. A strong religious environment influenced my aunt, whereas no visible religious commitments existed in my uncle’s family. Shortly after their marriage, however, my uncle adopted my aunt’s religion, which is Baptist. He still attends church regularly with her, but not as enthusiastically as my aunt.

My aunt and uncle’s political differences became quite apparent when I stated following politics. My aunt is a loyal Democrat and my uncle is proud Republican. Every four years after a presidential election, they return from the polls saying that it is no use in voting. They know that they cancel out each other’s vote.

My aunt and uncle’s greatest difference is in their personality. Aunt Alice has always been more friendly and outgoing, whereas, Uncle George tends to be antisocial and shy. Aunt Alice seems to be always laughing, even when she wants to cry, but Uncle George seems to be more serious. Aunt Alice demonstrates affection freely; Uncle George has a problem in letting his emotions show. She always administered the discipline, while Uncle George stayed in the background and gave whoever got in trouble emotional support on the sly. Aunt Alice is forthright and open, but Uncle George is soft-spoken and reserved. Aunt Alice seems to have a very strong opinion on everything; Uncle George tends to be quiet and easily swayed. No one in their family needs to worry about anything because Aunt Alice does it for them. If Uncle George ever worries, he keeps it well hidden. Aunt Alice does not believe in privacy, but on the other hand Uncle George respects everyone’s privacy.

Despite their many contrasts, my aunt and my uncle have been married more than twenty-five years. They have been steadfast in their devotion to each other and to the family. As a result, my cousins and I have been greatly influenced by the blending of their differences. From their wonderful parents we have gained a balance and stability that have been transmitted to our own relationships and lives.