In the hustle and bustle of today’s fast-paced world, where relationships can often feel fleeting and transient, there’s something profoundly beautiful about enduring love. It’s the kind of love that weathers storms, grows through challenges, and emerges stronger on the other side. And that’s exactly what we’ve experienced over the past 25 years.

It all began when I was just 19 and he was 20 —young, naive, and fearless. It feels like we were just kids the day he asked me to marry him, less than two months after we met. Everyone around us doubted our decision, questioning if we were too young, too impulsive. A few even said it wouldn’t work, that we were rushing into something we couldn’t possibly understand.

Yet here we are, almost a quarter of a century later, proving them all wrong. Our journey together has been far from smooth; we’ve faced challenges that could have torn us apart. Financial struggles, health scares, the pressures of raising a family—all of these could have been reasons to give up. But instead, they became reasons to hold on tighter, to lean on each other, and to grow together.

Our love isn’t perfect—we’ve had our share of disagreements, moments of doubt, and tears shed. But through it all, there’s been an unwavering bond, a deep-seated affection that has only grown with time. It’s not just about the milestones we’ve celebrated together—the births, the anniversaries, the successes—but about the everyday moments, the quiet mornings and late nights, the shared laughter and comforting silence.

And I am still so in love with him, just as fiercely as I was all those years ago, if not more. Our life together is a testament to the power of commitment, resilience, and unwavering faith in each other. It’s not about having a perfect life, but about creating a life that is uniquely ours—a life filled with love, understanding, and mutual respect.

As we approach our 23^rd wedding anniversary in August and then 25 years of being together in October, I want to thank that kid for being my partner, my confidant, and my very best friend. Here’s to the next 25 years and beyond, navigating life’s twists and turns together, hand in hand. Our love story is far from over—it’s a beautiful journey that continues to unfold, one cherished moment at a time.