Well, Jim, your sense of humor is great, as always, and I think we would all like to go up and live on Steve's farm--it sounds so beautiful. But what I really like the most about your posting is your bringing up the issue of long-term commitment in marriage. I think keeping a very long marriage exciting and companionable is a real skill, one that I'm just developing. It feels good to have a refuge--a place you can go where someone will always understand you. Maybe that is the source of pain as well--to be that vulnerable for years and years, and to risk loss, too. What's hardest for me is just keeping everything fresh as routine rears its ugly, boring head at the same time youthful energy is ebbing as well. Maybe part of the trick is reinventing the self a little. I don't know where I was rambling on about wanting my husband to get one little emerald earring, but he decided to do it! I guess the midlife-crisis-red-sports-car isn't far down the road. When I really want to think about the relationship, I listen to "One" by U2 (on Achtung Baby). It's pretty inspiring, at least for me, in dealing with the pain and commitment of a loooooooooonnnnnng marriage. Anyone else have a favorite song about commitment, that actually makes them feel strong and committed, not like running out the door?
Gee, it's getting pretty late; see you tomorrow (later today)!
Christine |
