50 Years

Golden anniversary. Why do they call 50 years of marriage "golden"?" I never even gave it a thought until this year, these past couple of weeks as we approach our 50th anniversary. We met on July 1, 1966 at Jacksonville Beach. It wasn't a "normal" meeting or meeting place. There are a lot of interesting and funny stories associated with our meeting and dating. On July 1, 1967 we were married at Normandy Baptist Temple (now West Jacksonville Baptist Church). At the time, as a 20 year old girl, I couldn't fathom how quickly 50 years would pass. The first year of marriage was unusual in several ways. Honeymoon, new home, two weeks reserve duty for Johnny, his new job in Georgia, two weeks caring for my mother after surgery, move to Milledgeville, Ga., new church, no friends, pregnancy, birth of our son, all within 10 months. Homesickness, making new friends, learning to cook and care for a home and husband, entertaining Queen style. Learning patience. Changing expectations. Seven years passed quickly with Christy and Julie added to the family. Lifelong friendships formed. Then another move to Tallahassee, FL. Kids starting school, family fun, travel, lots of different hats, close friendships old and new, employment, kids finishing school. Families of friends falling apart and grieving over them, hardships, disappointments, but always faith and commitment. Watching little ones become adults, seeing parents growing older, weddings, grandchildren, caring for parents, saying goodbye to loved ones, all the while learning to find the good, to be thankful, to laugh at ourselves and each other kindly. By the time we reach the milestone of 50, the memories have become golden. We have forgiven each other and ourselves. We have honored our promise to have and hold in sickness and health. We celebrate God's goodness to us. We tell our stories with laughter. Our memories are shared so we can help each other remember. 50 years of hard work, tears, joy, laughter, faith, love, together

. Golden.