© 2019 Rachel L. Shumate | All rights reserved.
Ten years ago two young and naive kids in their mid twenties said “I do” as they stood on a sunny beach holding hands, with their family members looking on. A whole decade has passed since that day. It’s hard to believe Kendall and I have been married that long. It feels like both forever ago and as though it happened just yesterday.
On the morning of our anniversary, Kendall woke me up to tell me goodbye before leaving early for work (as always). He kissed me, and told me he loved me, and so on. He also wished me happy anniversary and said, “Ten years, wow…” I replied, “I’ve been putting up with you for ten years?! I deserve a medal haha.” He retorted, “I’ll give you some metal – screws for a broken leg.” Laughing at his ever quick sarcasm, I shot back, “Bah! Whatever! I’d bury you in the back yard.” – Aren’t we romantic…?
(For those who don’t know us personally, I promise this was just friendly banter. However, I’m not encouraging anyone to become a vigilante, nor do I mean to make light of actual domestic violence.)
Truth is we couldn’t imagine our lives without each other. Although I suspect both of us fleetingly fantasize about it from time to time (haha). As with all marriages, we’ve had our fair share of ups and downs. Such is life; don’t let anyone try to tell you differently. Thankfully, we have been extremely blessed to not have experienced serious tragedy or upheaval thus far. And the good has far outweighed the bad. We have built a wonderful life together full of love, support, laughter, and fun. It’s not to say that we don’t drive each other crazy now and then, but I’m pleased to say we are both of the opinion that we have a very happy relationship. And yes; there is still some romance left in case you’re wondering after the paragraph above.
Ten years feels like quite a milestone, but at the same time it’s really only 10 years. What’s 10 years compared to 50 or 75? I certainly pray that we are fortunate enough to celebrate many more decades together, and that our love can withstand the tests time will surely throw at us. I don’t consider myself particularly qualified to impart marital advice; however, I will share something Kendall told me long ago when we were engaged, “Marriage is what you make it.” How very true that statement is. I really don’t think good marriages just happen like a ridiculous fairytale; they take a lot of hard work on both sides. And at the end of the day you must choose love – always; even when you’re mad.
So… I guess I’m proud of how far we’ve come, and I’m looking forward to what lies ahead. The goal is to grow old together, love each other, and enjoy the journey. We’re off to a pretty decent start; I hope to continue the trend.
To all the other married couples out there who are “killing it” and not each other: kudos to you for sticking together and sticking it out. It’s a commitment like no other, and hopefully you find the rewards to be great. In the words of Saint Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa): “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” Goodness knows this world needs more love.
