It was a bright sunny day, the sunshine crept through the netted branches above me as if trying to soak me up with its warmth. How much I longed for the sun if only he knew.
We walked hand in hand, through the pink cloud of flowers above us. The botanical garden was a good choice for short span dates. Why do you ask? We rarely have time you see. The kids are now a hand full. The schedules are chaotic. From our busy lives, we take in the small gulps of fresh air whenever there is time.
They said the spark starts to lose its power down the road. We both were scared as well. At times there were days we would just talk in the morning and at night before sleeping, holding hands with one of the kids between us.
With the demanding life, the love was slipping. When I look around me, the sleeping twins and my snoring husband didn't come in a silver platter. I waited patiently and prayed for what I have today. I can never thank Allah enough for the blessings he has bestowed on me. At that time I made a decision. I would never give up on love.
It started with small notes tucked into the lunch boxes. Mind you I am a firm believer that the way to a man's heart is through his tummy. The lunch boxes returned with flowers, candies and my personal favourite, the chocolate doughnuts.
Through his board meetings, he took out time to send me text messages and I returned them cheesy replies and pictures.
Small gestures, appreciations and long walks are the reason for our strong bond. I love you and thank you has increased the intimacy. Give something and receive something in return. Be the first to apologize, even if you aren't at fault. Things will take a high road and sometimes the life stoops low. It's at that moment you are tested. Your love is under a trail. Don't back down. Don't turn away. Stand tall. Face it. Look into his eyes and you will find the reason why you fell in love with them in the first place. It's the eyes that never age.
After 50 years, we are still walking through. We still rarely have time for us. The praying beads have taken place of the chores and the kids are replaced with grandkids. The botanical garden remains a quick escape from the reality to our happily ever after.
