From This Day Forward

Over the weekend, the grandparents of one of our staff members celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary. That's right...67 years ago, Russ and Rosalie stood before their friends and family and vowed to love, honor and cherish each other, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, as long as they both shall live. We can't think of too many things in life that has lasted 67 years. It is incredible to imagine them on that day, almost seven decades ago, promising the same vows that you will soon recite to your partner. We are reminded that although the phrases are simple, the sincerity and the honor of that promise should never be taken lightly. In the hustle and bustle of planning a wedding it is easy for the event details to overcome your thoughts and energy, but at the end of the day your wedding is about the commitment you are entering together.

Now, looking back on their 67 years together Russ and Rosalie have a greater understanding of the vows they made as young adults. They have certainly had their moments of good times. They have witnessed weddings and births of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. But, they have also had their share of bad times too, particularly at the death of their daughter. They realize, that a marriage isn't only about the day a couple says "I Do," but more importantly about the days when they continue to say "I Do" even when life's obstacles make it much easier to say "I Don't."

In February, Russ and Rosalie will watch as their youngest granddaughter marries her future husband. And we can almost be certain that on that day, they will be reminded of the incredible example they have set for their family by cherishing each other and the vows they made so many years ago.