A Tribute to Love

Tonight, one of my professors (who pronounces himself "crazy" and urges us not to try to change that), invited his wife to join our class. He encouraged us to ask her any questions about him that we were just dying to know the answers to, and she proved to be a captivating storyteller. In my opinion, I think there are few things more precious than a couple who's been married for many years and still loves each other with a burning passion.

As I watched the two of them interact, I realized that true love does, in fact, exist. This runs contrary to the heartbreaking stories that invade so many of our lives. I'll admit, I can be pretty skeptical of lasting love, and it's taken me a long time to learn to hope. Every once in a while, I meet couples that absolutely boggle my mind. I still can't quite comprehend what it's like to be married to someone for 50 years, to intimately  know all of their faults and their merits, and to love them more with each day that comes to a close. I think that love must be the most beautiful gift life has to offer, and maybe the most elusive, too. So many people spend so much of their lives searching for someone with whom they can connect. Some people find that love and give it up for whatever reason, and some people seek without finding. And some lucky few find that deep, treasured love and don't let go. Smart choice.

This husband and wife had so many stories to share from their 54 years of marriage. I was struck by how playful they were, and how they seemed to just be wrapped in each other's goodness. They seemed to shine when they talked about how spectactular their mate was, and it almost brought tears to my eyes. In my own family, it's tough for me to find examples of people who seem truly happy in their marriages. Maybe that's why I can so appreciate those couples that are truly better for being together. At times, it's easier to believe that "true" love doesn't exist, because that kind of love implies vulnerability, intimacy, and commitment. That can be terrifying. But tonight, I realized (again) that all those fears are worth setting aside, just to have someone look at you the way that my professor and his wife look at each other. What a tribute to love.

Our homework, as usually dictated by this professor, is simple: "Go love yourself and everyone that gets in your way." I think I'll get started now...