It's been a long time coming. That's why my wife Barbara's 70th birthday, coming this Sunday, beats my own 70th circuit of Old Sol two years ago.
And in my heart, her birthday far outshines today's Independence Day celebration.
Sure, this July Fourth ushers in of our country's 250th year. I acknowledge the historical milestone with a nod and thanks, but also a sigh heavy with bittersweet memories of dreams realized, and lost, by a nation both boasting and staggering in global light and shadow.
With the passage of time, my own world has shrunk, as have the years ahead of me. But that they can now more fully be spent with Barbara, as she moves, finally, into retirement with me, is everything. Be those years few, or God willing, many, each will be more precious than a decade of diamonds.
We dream of travel, exploration, and discovery -- though aware that having such time together will be something entirely new to us in our older years, demanding imagination, patience, creativity, and patience -- in each other, and willingness to be open to new places and friends along the way.
I hope our children and grandchildren will be part of this journey, too.
Part of it, supportive of it, and welcoming of us -- as well as allowing us occasional room to wander.
We can, and should be, after all, part of the same adventure.
And in our love, our faith, our prayers, and memories, we are One in ways only Our Creator can understand, and bless.
Happy birthday, Barbara.
It's so much more than 70 candles glowing on a cake.
You light my life.
