Sometimes I feel like a cat, with its 9 lives and all. But when I think about it, really think about it, I feel like I’ve had more than 9 lives. And I don’t think I’m anywhere near being done.
I am as flawed as a human being can be, while still managing to function in this world. I make mistakes. I make poor choices. And yet I also make a life. I do not make it alone.
Somehow, in the blessed ignorance of youth, I made what has perhaps been the greatest choice of my life: I married Mister.
Today is our anniversary. We have shared countless ups and downs, innumerable lives and 25 years. When people ask what our secret is, we answer honestly: we don’t know. If we had a clue, we’d have made a fortune off of it already. But life’s like that. Sometimes it just is.
Mister and I barely resemble the kids in the above photo, as they danced to Nat King Cole’s “Too Young.” The picture was taken so long ago – so many lives ago – I almost don’t recognize us. But if I study it for a while, I start to see the silver thread connecting us to those young lovers. And I marvel at their brilliant decision to hold hands and venture through this world together. They had no idea how brave they were, as they stood on the precipice of life.
We’re still holding hands. I’d like to think we’re still brave. A little more weary, sure. But when I dance with that guy, and I look into those blue eyes, I am once again that youthful, excited girl. And no matter what the world – or the mirror – may say, all I see is joyful possibility. And love.