It's Been A Long Time

Tomorrow we will help celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary of my in-laws. Much planning, by my wonderful wife and her sisters, has gone into this. As well it should have, 50 years is a long time for anything. I couldn't imagine being married that long. Think of all the great memories two people could share. And I have no doubt that they are as much in love today as they have ever been. They are a wonderful couple and I couldn't have asked for better in-laws. We have enjoyed many good times together-holidays at their home, holiday meals at their home (my mother-in-law is a great cook), having them over for a meal (my wife is a great cook, as well), playing games, cookouts, dining out, Christmas at their home, and many good memories. I can't think of two people who deserve this milestone and celebration more. I feel privileged to be able to share in honoring them on their special day. One of the amazing things is that they still have my mother-in-law's wedding gown and the suit in which my father-in-law got married.

Fifty years! What an example for others of us who are married to follow. Fifty years of good times and hard times but they stuck it out. So many of us quit too soon today. But quitting just wasn't an option to them. What commitment! What dedication! What determination! What strength! What love!

I have been asked to say a few words at their celebration and it's hard to know what to say to honor a couple that has been married 50 years. But I know this, the love they share has blessed my heart in the time that I have known them. It does us all good, I think, in today's "throw away" society to see that there are those who believe in making it stick. To see that marriage can, and should, be permanent. To see that, yes, love can, and does, last 50+ years.

Congratulations Bernard and Lorraine. I love you!