Perspective

Forty-four years ago, I looked into the eyes of my beloved, and said "I do" to everything; the known, the unknown, the laughter, the tears, the challenges, the sorrows, the celebrations, the worry, the pain, the joy.

It was a dream come true for a young girl now grown, that had started years ago, listening to the love stories of ...

my parents...

...whose nuptials made the society pages of the Chicago Tribune.

and my grandparents. I loved the bouquet of Lily of the Valley. How divinely that must have smelled!

I imagined my wedding day— had it fully scripted out. After a glorious wedding, we would take off to some tropical place without a worry in the world, just my beloved and I. After a week or two, return to our sweet little apartment and begin our life together.

But sometimes, life has other plans.

I spent the ride over consoling and reassuring my father, who was unusually "misty."I remember just the two of us behind the church doors, my hand holding tight onto his left arm and thinking I couldn't wait for them to open.

The wedding was indeed glorious. I was as content, peaceful and happy as I had ever imagined, with each promise made.

Our reception went well with plenty of friends and family, and joy. I especially love this photo, L-R: My father-in-law Ralph, my mother, Nancy, and my Uncle Don. I wish I knew what had been said and what brought on the laughter.

But sadly, my father-in-law passed away that evening from a massive heart attack. We spent our wedding night in the emergency room, and then mourning with family till late in the evening. Our honeymoon turned into a memorial service.

I recently wrote a poem about the deep emotions I felt, waking up the next morning.

While this chapter of our love story brought forth the promise of sharing sorrow and grief way sooner than I expected....

The lesson of "the repetition of gray melting to yellow," the hopefulness of life going on, that broken hearts do heal, stays with me always. With every Good Friday we have endured, there has always been "an Easter," though it may have taken some time for us to see it.

My greatest gift from September 19th, was beginning my life with such an amazing man. I am still in awe that he loved me, chose me, and saw in me things I couldn't see in myself. I have been a better daughter, sister, friend, wife, mother and grandmother because of his love.

Happy anniversary, my love!

Happy Poetry Friday, everyone.

Check out the round-up at Jama's lovely site.

You'll find some fun to read alphabet-inspired poems to share with your kids.