That today Barb and I mark 31 years of marriage is something of a wonder. We are not just still married. We are still in love.
Is it possible to spend seven (or ten or thirty) years with the same person and still find her (or him) alluring and delightful?
This is the question that I find Hollywood (excluding Pixar) asking in so many movies (such as He’s Just not That into You, which we watched Friday) and giving an answer that if not exactly ‘no’ verges on it.
And it is not just Hollywood. A dear Christian friend confided to me a quarter century ago that she did not know one happily married couple.
To remain committed and in love is not easy, but it is possible. But wherein lies the secret?
That we have kept our vows for 31 years is partly due to the commitment we made to do so, for sure. We entered this relationship with a commitment never to divorce.
Certainly Barb, with her incredible patience and honesty and stability and perseverance makes it easy for me. I honor greatly those men and women who are faithful and supportive to their husbands or wives when they do not receive any love in return. Barb, I am grateful to you.
Ultimately, though, the fact that we celebrate 31 years today is because God has been gracious to give us this gift. It is not something I or she deserve. It is not something that either of us has the strength to preserve. It is a gift of God’s grace. And I cannot thank him enough.
For those with two minutes and and a sentimental streak, watch the video below. It is of two very young and naïve people pledging their lives to one another.
Isn’t the girl in the picture stunning?
Happy anniversary, Barb.
—–
Note: “7878” is, I guess you could say, “our number”. We were married on 7/8/78.
MagistraCarminum
Awww- I remember them from the first time around! Congratulations, Randy and Barb!And how did you transfer the old tapes to something electronic? I know it was on a cassette!
Gail and Keith
Yes, the girl in the picture is stunning as she still is today. Congratulations to you both and thank you for sharing this special memory of 7/8/78. G
Adria
Congratulations Mom and Dad. I am ever thankful for the example you showed us of a committed and loving marriage. It is something that I am forever grateful for, and that Gama an I are blessed by. Thank you! Love you guys.
Randy Greenwald
Thanks, A. That means a lot to me/us. We love you!
Seth
How cute! I have to say I was surprised by how thick the Michigan rolled off of Mom's tongue… Amy and I echo everything that Adria has stated already. We love you both very much. Wow. 31! It is so cool. Amy and I are coming up on 6, very quickly!
MagistraCarminum
Six is getting credible Seth. I remember that one, too! I remember the rain storm, and trying to get the helium balloons without getting them wet, and making bazillions of little key lime pies. And I remember Barb's niece, at around age 6, telling me, "A little deodorant, and you'll be good to go." :-)Dave and I celebrate our 29th next week.
TulipGirl
*mush, mush*