10-10-14
I usually publish blogs on Fridays that I’ve posted previously but today is an exception. It’s my wedding anniversary.
Patti and I have been married 16 years and I’m going to brag a little. Our’s is a true love story. I was recently divorced and she was recently widowed when a mutual friend introduced us in 1996. I don’t wish to get mushy and sound as if I’m reading a Hallmark Card, but from the moment we met, we connected and it has been a non-stop adventure ever since.
First, we had to blend two sets of children together into one family. Seven in total. In the movies, it’s a snap. In real life, it takes patience, understanding, forgiveness, and love. I never imagined that I’d be a father to seven children. Now, I can’t imagine not being one. I’m tremendously grateful for our children.
Next came a number of unexpected challenges. When my son developed a mental illness, Patti became my rock. She helped Kevin in his recovery. Both of Patti’s younger sisters were diagnosed with cancer. Both died too young. My elderly parents arrived and were under our roof for four years until my mom died in December and my father’s dementia became so severe that we moved him into a memory care unit. Patti was wonderful with them and she visits my father faithfully. Every relationship has ups and downs. Granted, I’ve caused most of the downs. But there have been many more happy times and ups than down ones.
My friend, Walt Harrington, once told me that no one gets through life without getting beaten up. I mentioned our challenges not to seek your sympathy but because in a marriage and in life, it is the difficult moments that reveal your true character and either solidify or undercut a marriage.
If you are fortunate, you find a partner who makes the difficult moments bearable and the joys even more glorious.
Patti is that partner for me so forgive me for writing today about how fortunate I am because she is in my life. I hope you have a “Patti” in your life too. If so, give that person a hug and be thankful.
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