Valentine's
Day. Like most holidays, this too, has different meanings for
different
people. It's candy and cards, hugs and kisses, flowers and feelings
and much m
ore!
As a young
person, it's embarrassing to be thought of as someone's
Sweetheart
But soon it
becomes a contest to see who can collect the most cards.
Then we turn
to the matter of developing a serious relationship with someone
for which
we care deeply.
As time passes,
we turn to flowers and simple quotes in an attempt to express
our feelings
for this special someone.
If we are
not careful, this holiday can become routine and lose much of it's
sincerity.
Eventually, you have to stop and smell those roses and get a little
sentimental.
I've spent
34 years married to my high school sweetheart. Over the years,
she has been
my inspiration for everything I've accomplished. We care for each
other and
truly enjoy being with each other. I can't explain the secret to a
love like
ours, but I can tell you that it sure feels good.
We've been
through good times and hard times. Never once has our faith in
each other
faltered. Oh, yes, we do bicker and disagree occasionally. That's life.
These differences
of opinion add spice to that life and can provide the nourishment
necessary
to make a love grow stronger. Two working as one toward a common
goal and enjoying
every minute of it -- that's Great !!
This has been
hard for me to write. You see, I'm one of those non-emotional men
out there
who feels it could be a sign of weakness or a reduction in
manliness
to show these emotions (a "man thing" I guess). As such,
I've neglected
my sweetheart by not providing enough of these outward
signs of love
and caring.
She knows
I'm there and will do anything for her, but I, for some unknown
reason do
not say "I Love You" enough. But every now and then I manage to
surprise her
So, this one's
for you Karen -- my one and only. The sweetheart that has kept me
going all
these years.
I love you and I promise I'll try to do better in the future.
by cwodaveŠ Feb 1993
updated 2000
