To Love and Be Loved

by Cindy ~ April 28, 2007

I’m posting this a bit early as I hope to feel well enough tomorrow to get out and celebrate our 27th wedding anniversary.. (and Phoebes’ 2nd birthday!)

27 years ago, we stood in front of a minister in Poteau Oklahoma. We’d travelled south to get married because it meant alot to me for my dying Grandfather to meet my future husband.. and it meant alot to him as well. He was the most special man in my life and now I had two. They had alot in common, more than I knew at the time.

We wrote our own vows, exchanged rings and happy tears, then took our van up to the beautiful Quachita Mountains where we camped, fished and celebrated our commitment to each other.. and to life. When we returned to Michigan, our families and friends gave us a wonderful reception where we danced the dance of the young and hopeful.. we knew we’d conquer any hardships that may lie ahead because we were and still are best friends.

Like any couple, we’ve had our share of life-stuff. Everyone does. But we chose to let challenges bring us closer together instead of rip us apart. We communicate- we talk. We laugh and we cry together. We have our own separate interests, but we truly enjoy each others’ company and there’s no place I’d rather be than in the comforting arms of my best friend, he’s always been there through good times and bad. He takes me places when I know he’d much rather be out fishing instead, just so I can get out of the house. He rarely complains- about anything. He reels me back in when I tend to dive in over my head. He makes my heart smile and I’m more in love with this gentle, caring man today than I was 27 years ago- like fine wine, our love has matured with time and understanding.. with honesty and a respect for each others’ needs. I tell him each and every day how much he means to me, and he does the same. Without his help during this illness, I’d probably be in a rest home.. he helps me dress, cleans the house and cooks our meals. He’s been my liferaft in a large ocean of uncertainty and pain. My illness has affected him as much as it has me, only in different ways. He hurts when I hurt, and vice versa.

I’m overweight, loosing my hair and don’t look anything remotely like myself, due to the medication I take. I can barely stand up, yet my heart dances so high. He makes me feel like the most beautiful woman in the world… and certainly the most cherished.