70 Years Together
This week my parents celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary! What an inspiring accomplishment! Our family is very thankful that my parents still live together in their home and are content and happy. They celebrated with a special meal that was delivered, plus a visit the day before from some family members. They have never been ones to make a fuss, refusing a big celebration on the 50th and often having the most simple of meals to celebrate each year.
It’s impossible not to be inspired by the longevity of their love and commitment. They raised three successful children, somehow putting us all through college and supporting us in numerous other ways. My mother ran the household as my father had a job he loved but which took him away each weeknight. He and I have talked about his regrets at having to be away from his family and putting much of the burden of raising the kids during the week on his wife. But he was there on weekend and special events and concerts.
Now in their golden years, my father has become the one to run the household, fixing meals and keeping things running as my mother faces some challenges. It’s been lovely to see him embrace the responsibility of these changes. You just do what you have to do when you’ve been in a successful marriage for 70 years!
I never begrudge anyone who decides to leave a relationship that is no longer joyful and productive for all involved. But it’s heart-warming to be reminded what is possible with determination and hard work and lots of love. I hope we can all be inspired to stick with it, no matter what we’re a part of, and focus more on the good than the bad. Dr. Kennedy Shultz once said “If you’re having issues with your relationship, remember why you got together in the first place. Focus on those things which brought you together and it can lead you to solutions to many problems.” Great advice indeed.
I love you, Mom and Dad, and so very proud of this accomplishment. I am thankful you are still in my life and so happy together after 70 years!
Tim Hinton
February 24, 2022
