Feb 16 2009
Valentine’s Day Takes on New Meaning in Later Years
This year I spent a quiet Valentine’s Day weekend with my wife and her sister. I am now 62, (since last week) and my spouse and her sister are in their fifties. Let’s say early fifties. We exchanged cards, chocolate and flowers (tulips this year). Our small gestures were very genuine. 
In later years I believe we come to this special observance with new appreciation for how really difficult love and relationships can be. There are always disagreements and compromises–confrontations too. When we work them out and just relax a little we see how far we have come since our early years.
Now I see myself as “sturdy” and “reliable,” sort of like a favorite old horse. My wife depends upon me for occasional heavy lifting, running into town on errands, making certain that the animals are fed and get to the veterinarian as scheduled. I keep the place up, landscaping and machinery-wise. I think she wants me to perform this role and I enjoy it.
As for her, I see her as continuing to be the glue that holds us together. She is the one with the understanding heart to help out the kids or grandkids. She ministers to the pets; she always gives them their baths and cleans out the eyes and ears. She ministers to me as well. Just like a big baby, when I am hurting I am useless. She is also the one who comes up with the ideas for special events, holiday parties, trips for us and the grandkids, games and really special menu items.
She is the driver. I am the horse.
