A Diamond Anniversary

I like the way my Uncle Steve looked at my Aunt Doris as they renewed the weddings vows.

I imagine he looked at her just that way on their wedding day 60 years ago.

That look of love and gratitude tells a sweet story for a young couple full of excitement, pride and hope.

It tells a far richer story on a Diamond Anniversary, one of wisdom, understanding and, still, hope.

The years in between those looks have been good to Doris and Steve. They raised a family anyone would be proud to call their own, three accomplished kids, nine grandkids and a great-grandchild on the way.

They even raised the first fish their son, my cousin David, caught when he was a very little boy. They kept it in a tank in their kitchen and I’m sure that fish felt lucky for the change in scenery. My aunt’s kitchen smells like peach pie and chocolate cake.

My uncle is an engineer and he designed their home accordingly. It expands generously when family comes to town, and contracts to cozy comfort when it’s just the two of them. He once told me he bought his first house intentionally so the sun would rise and set behind him on his commute to work. Imagine planning so well you never have to squint!

My aunt learned, and then taught American Sign Language. She pays close attention to people, stores their interests in her maternal rolodex and knows exactly what to give them when the occasion arises.

My mom, matron of honor at the wedding, read a poem at the vow renewal, “On Marriage” by Kahlil Gibran.

 “Love one another, but make not a bond of love: Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls.”

I love that image.

Congratulations to Doris and Steve on 60 years of marriage and thanks for inviting us to the party!