As Valentine’s Day approaches I find myself thinking of Auntie and Uncle, two special people I have known almost as long as my parents. They will be married 55 years in May… I wonder how they managed to stay together all these years, continuing to navigate the ups and downs of life, when so many others throw up their hands on marriage and run in the opposite direction. Something I must ask them about soon…
In many ways, Auntie and Uncle were like parents, caring for me and my siblings at times when our parents were out — two joyful and steady individuals who filled our lives with love and delight. At times when our own parents were busy or stressed, it seemed that Auntie and Uncle always had a bit of extra energy to share…
They were great baby-sitters even before they married, except for the evening Uncle gave my six-month old brother an apple slice to chew! Needless to say the kid choked, Auntie got hysterical, but Uncle had the good sense to turn Dan upside down and whack him across the back. Auntie cleaned up the mess and tried to settle us down before our parents arrived home… Uncle remained in a cold sweat for the remainder of the evening. I suspect he never gave his own kids apple slices until they were at least twelve…
Then there was one of many times that they took us to a playground — one with huge slides and fast merry-go-rounds — you know the kind that I don’t even think pass safety inspections these days, where the kids hold on and run in circles and jump on for the ride, hoping that the dizziness wouldn’t spoil the rest of the play time. But, one hot evening it made me sick, and I recall Auntie and Uncle having an argument about how to get me back on my feet. Auntie suggested I rest until I felt better; Uncle wanted me to get up and forget that I felt lousy! Auntie won. However, it was his suggestion of ice cream on the way home that brought me back to life.
On another playground evening it started to rain, and we sadly cut our time short. Once again Uncle suggested ice cream, and we piled into his cool car to travel to their favorite soda shop. I recall sitting in the back seat of that car with my little brother, watching out the window as it grew very dark and stormy in a matter of minutes, raining so hard that Uncle could not see the road ahead. Dan and I were scared. Auntie was anxious, we could tell. Uncle was again in a cold sweat, clearly worried. Even at that age I could feel the great sense of responsibility that Auntie and Uncle had for their niece and nephew. Guess it was that night when I knew that no matter what they would protect us forever — and they have, never once dismissing or discounting any aspect of our lives. How lucky to be loved so purely and honestly… My relationship with them has always been rock solid, based on trust and a sense of knowing that they were real, genuine, and good people. And over the years, growing up, I always knew I could run to them for any reason and be heard and accepted.
Many years have passed. There are many more stories to tell, and I will, but the foundation that was set during those early years has remained constant. Auntie and Uncle did marry when I was nearly five. (I was flower girl in their wedding!) They have raised two very fine children of their own, and have five grandchildren.
Happy Valentine’s Day to Auntie and Uncle!!! If only more couples had your commitment and determination.
