Like a river flows, Surely to the sea, Darling, so it goes, Some things are meant to be. Take my hand. Take my whole life too. For I can’t help falling in love with you. – Can’t Help Falling in Love, Elvis Presley
We chose this song as our wedding dance. It seemed a perfect choice for a young couple who felt love was destined, as young couples do. We took each other’s hand on the road as we thought it would lead.
And we had strong examples to follow. Doug’s parents and mine each celebrated 50 years of marriage. My Mom made blueberry pies to celebrate my Dad’s birthday. My Dad brought her flowers on paydays. I remember seeing my in-laws walking hand in hand as the warm Florida sunset embraced them. These little details shaped a lasting impression.
Yet no road is always straight or bright. No one can predict the twists and turns, the worries and trials. You stretch out a hand in the dark, hoping that there will be another to catch you. That is how we love and how we hope we will be loved. Love becomes the greatest leap of faith and most defiant act of hope, making these three virtues inseparable.
On the Valentine’s Day after we were engaged, Doug gave me a yellow conversation heart that said “Marry Me” in red letters. More than twenty years later, the lettering has faded, but I still remember what it said. And I also recall that young couple who took each other’s hands and danced to Elvis many years ago.
Grief, Reflected 