In a few days, my husband and I will celebrate our 35th wedding anniversary. We have reached that point at which younger people ask, “What’s your secret?”

Wedding photoThere is no secret.

Two people. Love for each other. Shared commitment.

It’s that simple. It’s that complicated.

Today, I am thankful for 35 years of love and commitment between my husband and I.

We had a simple church wedding with both a pastor and priest presiding (somewhat radical for the 70s!).  Our six readings provided the foundation for our life together, including the frequently used Corinithians 13:4-8 passage:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

The passage that was the basis of the Pastor’s medication that day was Colossians 3:12-17:

12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

No, there is no secret.

Two people. Love for each other. Shared commitment.

It’s that simple. It’s that complicated.

What are you thankful for?