On this very day, 40 years ago, two incredibly special people professed their love before God and man. Not knowing (as who does) what lay ahead, they were very excited to start their lives together,
as husband and wife. All they had was a bit of savings and a lot of love.
There were many trials and tribulations as the years went by. All of which were overshadowed by an exceptional respect, integrity, honor and love that they had for one another. That along with their honesty always brought them to great heights.
They were very modest and hard-working people who till this day, believe that if you have a great love for family, it will see you through the darkest of times. Throughout the years, they have always remained very soft spoken and humble individuals - Always believing in the importance of helping others. Family and friends could always count on them for anything. They were two people always there, whether you asked for assistance or not. If they possessed it, it was theirs to give. Never questioning for a moment what it would mean for them to go without. That notion was never as important as the purpose of giving.
Sadly, when you live a life of giving, often times you find others taking advantage of this type of nature. This man and wife were no exception. Their love and kindness often used and disrespect by others. Yet, in the grand scheme of things, they remained un-phased and no matter what nonsense came about, they always had the strength to remain who they were.
It is not often that you encounter such loveliness within this life. What's more, is that I have the pleasure of not only knowing these two individuals - but I was proudly bestowed the privilege and honor of being born their daughter.
Throughout the years, I have found their integrity, truth and strength incredibly empowering. My life hasn't been an easy one. I have had my very own fair share of battles to face. Yet, through it all, they have been my shelter, my rock and my biggest fans.
They have always taught me to be exactly who I am and nothing more. Because that's who I was born to be. "Trials will come but love is what will always get you through the wars" My Mom taught me that. "No one can ever take away a good heart filled with noble intentions." People will always try to sway you and take benefit over your kindness, but in the end, it is your soul that will be redeemed endlessly" My Dad taught me that.
All that my brothers and I have, share and love in this world, we owe to them. They have taught us to be "ourselves" in this crazy world that we live in. That our love, truth and respect for ourselves and others will be the only things we will ever need to shelter us. That we can shoot for the stars and dream our biggest dreams -but if we happen to fall short, that's ok, because we will always have exactly what we need (each other) and that will always be enough!
HAPPY 40th ANNIVERSARY, MOMMY AND DADDY!
"The most wonderful of all things in life, I believe, is the discovery of another human being with whom one's relationship has a growing depth, beauty, and joy as the years increase. This inner progressiveness of love between two human beings is a most marvelous thing; it cannot be found by looking for it or by passionately wishing for it. It is a sort of divine accident, and the most wonderful of all things in life.”
I could not think of a greater, more fitting quote for the two of you, that truly expresses all that your children feel having you as parents. You have always been the greatest role models for Nicolas, Johnny and I. We can only pray and dream that we will grow to become the individuals, husbands, wives and parents that you have been. It is probably the biggest challenge that we will ever encounter in our lives, but one that we will proudly honor and do our very best to live up to in your names.
So, a toast, to the loveliest couple in all the world:
"Never lie, steal, cheat, or drink. But if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love. If you must steal, steal away from bad company. If you must cheat, cheat death. And if you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away.
HAPPINESS, HEALTH AND LOVE...FOREVER!
Your daughter,
