A Valentine's Day Reflection

It's Valentine's Day, a day to spend money on flowers, cards, candy, and perhaps a big dinner, all in the name of romance.  I've been married to the same person for almost 29 years.  We may not put on the dog for Valentine's Day, but we find our ways to rekindle the love that first bloomed nearly 30 years ago.

While Valentine's Day celebrates romance, and romance is something worth celebrating and enjoying, a relationship is more than romance.  Romances come and go.  They can be long lasting or fleeting, but pure romance lacks the sustainability for the long haul.  I'm concerned that in our society that we have over hyped romance, to the detriment of long-term relationships.  There's a growing trend, in my view, of people falling in love with being in love.

As I look back over the years, I can see many rough patches.  These were spots that could have easily derailed our marriage.  But, somehow, we found a way to move forward.

So, here's my thought for the day:

Enjoy romance, while it lasts.
But build a relationship that lasts and lasts.

Thirty years is a lot

But, 60 and 70, now that's really a lot.

My poetry may not be all that hot,
but I'm celebrating a love that remains hot.

That really sounds bad, but hey, maybe I've made a point.  And so today, let's celebrate those folks that still hold hands after 70 years together!!!