50 Years of Love

I had the absolute pleasure to share my grandparents 50th wedding anniversary this past summer on Lake Michigan. The bright pink sunset over the cold water melted my heart. Words do not allow me to show true admiration for how I truly feel about them, but maybe this will do:

 I sit on Wittenberg's campus on a gloomy Monday afternoon, I remember the rocks that lay in your driveway outside your home. I remember the warmth I felt as a young boy when I made the final turn on Kelly Ridge Road, seeing the Marine and American flag waving bravely in the sunlight. I would burst into happiness when you two would swing the front door open and welcome us into your home; I can still feel the wood steps creaking under my feet walkingy up to the front door. How about the many nights we sat and listened to the woods creep as we swayed back and forth on your porch swing? Granny, I still feel your arm around me on that very swing--warm and tight. The smell of wood shavings and tools in my grandfather's workshop still hangs about my nostrils. I remember taking Will on piggy-back rides all through your home--laughing and goofing off like grandchildren are supposed to do. 

Some of my favorite memories as a child were watching my grandmother wash dishes as I ate a bowl of Cheerios on a crisp Townsend, Tennessee morning. The story my grandfather would tell of the countless bears he had to ward off, or having to kill rattle snacks while mowing the lawn still make me chuckle. 

I'll never forget the memories I made with you guys in the Smokey Mountains of Tennessee. It astonishes me how much I remember of a place 328 miles away from my hometown. Deep down in my heart, I know it's because I love you guys deeply. 

I want you both to know I carry you in my everyday words and actions. Like I mentioned before, I can still feel your touch on my shoulder, Granny, and it isn't going anywhere. Grandpa, your wisdom and stories have taught me there's more to life than what's just around you. Without knowing it, you guys have inspired me to broaden my horizons, as well as to trust and love harder.

The only thing I can wish to do is impact people the way you both have done; not only myself, but everyone in this room. 

Lastly, I say congratulations to you both. Remember to keep setting the world on fire with your ways. I love you both eternally.  

God bless and here's to another 50 years.