I was 19. We were just babies, really. But I fell hard. So hard that I can’t remember what it felt like in my heart before you inhabited it.
We were so young, I sometimes wonder how we even thought we knew what we’d be like as we grew up together. But even at the age of 21, you were you. You have always been patient. Far more than I. You have always been kind. You have always been happy for my accomplishments. You have never been too proud to apologize. Or admit wrong. You have forever treated me with respect. You are always worried about everyone else. You’re pretty even keel. And you never keep a scoreboard.
I was 23 when I walked down the aisle toward you. I was as happy as I’d ever been that day. And we exchanged the words… For richer, for poorer. In sickness and health. As long as we both shall live. And we’ve been pretty happy since.
We had changed up our vows. They were not 100% traditional. But they did include in sickness and in health. And goodness gracious, am I ever happy we kept that in there.
I couldn’t have known that day that our life would be so wonderful. I couldn’t have known that we’d be the parents to three beautiful {tiny} baby boys. I couldn’t have known that in sickness and in health meant that I’d truly be testing you on the vows a decade into our marriage.
But you have never failed me, Adam. You’ve never faltered in your commitment. You are the strong one. You are the inspiration. You are you. Through three preemie births, one miscarriage, and now, this part of our life… I could not have asked for a more appropriate partner to be here beside me. To literally wipe my tears. To see me at my weakest. To know I am going to be physically and visibly changed for the rest of our marriage. And to love me for my heart above all other parts of me.
You are a magnificent gift in my life. I believe that God planned you for me. And boy, am I happy he did.
For richer or for poorer. In sickness and in health. As long as we both shall live. I will be here through it all. And I’m so thankful that you will, too.
