For Better or Worse

Oh, those pesky vows. How they can interfere with one's selfish pursuits.

Shortly before I married my husband, 22 years ago next month, one of my former co-workers stood in front of me. She was middle-aged and divorced. Giving me a smirky smile, she said, 'Oh, you think he's so perfect now. Check back in ten years when the magic's worn off. Believe me, it disappears.'

Thanks for that, I replied. And I'm sorry your marriage didn't last, but bestowing your bitterness on me didn't work. I reflected on that exchange this week as I've been thinking about marriage. Commitment. Vows.

Jim and I met up with a couple from New York earlier this week. Sometimes we only see them once a year, but it's always enjoyable. They've been married for longer then we have. They're two pieces of a puzzle, they're just both.

Then there's the woman who, after thirty-odd years of marriage. is still gushy over her husband. It's sweet, yes, and a bit off-putting sometimes. But she can still get corny after thirty years with the same man, so who can find fault, really?

'In sickness and in health'

The guy who acts like a seven-year-old when he has the flu. The woman who is unbearable once a month. And now, as I see more and more frequently, the partner with a life-threatening illness. Every day can't be sunshine and flowers. Every relationship is tested during the most difficult times - illness, financial challenges, raising children. That's also when a marriage can be at its strongest. Stresses are everywhere. Saying "I Do" means saying "I Will." I will love you even on the days I don't like you. I will laugh with you, not at you. I will support you and respect you. I will stand by you, no matter what. And I will love growing old with you.