Ah, you mirrored a lot in here what I've experienced through my life.
My wife, is in another league compared to me. When we met she was a teacher, had her own business in the past, lived abroad, experienced, mature -- her roots and upbringing were in another world compared to me.
I was just a young man coming out of a reckless youth, retraining, learning the ropes -- I guess what she saw in me was a man that was trying.
Anyway, through that I learned all these things you talked about through her -- speak early, because you don't know what you're getting yourself into!
I liked that you noted that about your friend -- I've never been around quiet women, it would jar me also to have a man speak like that in front of her. But sometimes it's best let the seeds grow themselves.
Good post, I loved it :)
RE: The Flame Of Connection.