Your best hope for contentment in the autumn of your life is the celebration of seasons that you’ve shared.

1982

Years ago I was a member of a little country church. On numerous occasions our preacher would descend from the pulpit and announce; “Now I’m going to talk to you like I love you.”  That’s what I intend to do now.   Each of us begins our lives with high hopes and lofty expectations. In order to fulfill those expectations, most of us marry.  Fully aware that many marriages fail, we press onward, confident that our relationship will beat the odds and flourish forever.  Years pass, life happens; hardships bring disillusionment and despair.  Our marriages become tedious and we struggle with the prospect of living the rest of our lives and never again enjoying a mutually fulfilling relationship. Eventually we despair and consider other options.  Don’t do it.  You’ll never replace those early years of a mutually fulfilling marriage.  Relationships with those with whom we share a history can’t be reproduced or replaced. Don’t try.  During difficult times, immerse yourself in memories of better days.  Devote yourself to mutual goals.   Deepen your appreciation for shared experience and achievements.  Celebrate family and its many rewards. Reconcile yourself to the fact that, while you can’t go back, happiness can be found by moving forward and recommitting yourself to the life you’ve built together.  Your best hope for contentment in the autumn of your life is the celebration of seasons that you’ve shared. Shower your spouse with unconditional love and make certain everyday you’re worthy of theirs.  SC