I often wonder what makes our love special. My answers are always too many to count. If I had to sum it all up though, it’s the little things. It’s the way we are toward each other, the respect of each other. Love comes through respect. The deep, unconditional love is so different from the love of our youth. We let more go, we are not quick to “jump” on each other’s faults and quirks. I know Mark is better at this than I am, but I’ve learned from his example. I work hard at this, quelling the critical voices in my head and trying to remember, always, how forgiving he is. He has loved me through it all. He treats me with a deep respect no other person ever has. He believes in me & he supports me though all that life throws at us. The little things, are the big things, is the lesson I have finally truly learned. Mark still treats me like a woman he is dating, that makes our love special. I’m not his wife of 30 years, I’m his girlfriend, he’s still trying to impress. This is probably the key to the happy relationship we live together. We call each other or text, everyday, just because. Mark still opens doors, he still gets me safely in the car in inclement weather. He blocks me, as we cross the street, like I may walk in front of a car & I can’t cross a street by myself. It’s still funny to me, but sweet and it’s his way of protecting me & showing love. Mark is kind and his humanity of all radiates. I can’t begin to tell you how many times we have been out together & been approached by a person who may be an outcast or have mental illness or developmental disabilities. He has such deep respect for all, people feel that & talk to us. They may just need a listening ear, a person to show care. Mark is as good a human as I have ever known. I’m incredibly proud to be his partner. He makes me want to be better, every single day...
