Yesterday, I got to witness one of the most beautiful things in this world that still exist.
Todd and Linda were married for nearly 19 years before Todd could finally plan the wedding of Linda's dreams. When he told her of this grand master plan, Linda was shaking in tears of happiness.
So when the day came and they exchanged vows...all was silent. All you could hear was each one making their solemn promise to one another. And you could hear the love in their voices.
The after party was spectacular. Friends and family gathered around for drinks, food, and drunken banter. What caught my attention more than anything was the looks in my friends' faces as they danced with each other on the dance floor. Their favorite song came up as they sang the words to one another. It gave me goosebumps at first. Then...it made me miss my wife even more than I already do. It made me wonder if I'd be this happy 17 years from now. It made me hope that I could do something this spectacular for my wife and wonder if I, too, would be able to bring that same look of joy on my wife's face that was displayed on Linda's.
August 5, 2006 was the day of Todd and Linda's 19th anniversary. August 5th was the day they both floated on cloud nine. And it reminded all us married folk just how precious holy matrimony can be. I of all people there knew the most. Since I've been privy to some of Todd's hardships. I know what he's been through and what he's done in his past. Despite of it all...he has remained married to this loving woman for nearly two decades. There was literally a glowing aura around them as they danced on the dance floor.
It was that moment in that day that made me realize if a man of so many hardships could still maintain a marriage this content, I must strive for the same. So many days we go through tough times and we tend to forget the few beautiful things that still exist on this earth. Like the holy union of a happily married couple. With so many marriages ending prematurely these days, we tend to forget the original purpose of why two people join together in the first place. I've very rarely seen true happiness...but I was able to witness it yesterday. The only other time I've seen this type of matrimony was during my grandparents 50th anniversary.
All of this, along with my own personal hardships, is more than reason enough for me to continue fulfilling my vows for my own wife. I would walk through fire for this woman. I would kill for this woman. I would lie, cheat, and steal for this woman if it meant keeping her happy. In short, there isn't anything I wouldn't do for the love of my life. I've even lost good friends for her. Although...that last part is about to change.
I didn't mean to ramble, but I had to reiterate to some of my dedication. Despite my current struggles, I still know my love for my wife is true. I was reminded of the vow I took years ago upon the renewal vows of Todd and Linda. I think I know what I must do next...though it may take some time.
For me, making my wife happy will always be a work in progress. Because I'm a perfectionist. A man who exists only to help others find some semblance of happiness as a result of once losing his own years ago. This is my gift...my curse.
There is so much more to say. I wish I could make everyone understand the constant struggle I go through. Balance is key though. To bring happiness to both the world...and the woman you love. Make no mistake: she will always come first. But I can't stop doing what I do. If I do, who else will suffer?
Good vibes to all happily married folk. This one's for you!