5 Years Ago

Humans like to mark events--like, for example, how it has been some seven months since last I wrote. We especially like to mark events in fives and tens, since that sort of numbering seems natural to us. Therefore, the fact that today marks the fifth anniversary of my and Thora's wedding seems somehow significant. It does not seem that long, as the cliche goes, but they have been some wonderful years. When we were first married, neither of us had earned our bachelor's degree, but now we both have done so.

Thora and I were reminiscing the other day, and I remembered when I first met my lovely wife, I had been in Hebrew 101 for only a couple of weeks, while she had been studying Hebrew for several years. I remember how impressed I was with her knowledge. I did not know then that events would happen such that we would be together for the day when my Hebrew skills would surpass hers (since I have continued to study Hebrew, while she works on being the most amazing mother and homemaker this side of the Mississippi). Indeed, in many ways dating and marrying Thora came as a surprise to both of us. A pleasant surprise, to be sure, but a surprise nonetheless. It warms my heart, for I know that in the end Thora did not have to marry me, but chose me.

For I love my wife dearly. I am grateful that our marriage was for time and for all eternity, for with Parley Pratt I know that "the refined sympathies and affections which endeared us to each other emanated from the fountain of divine eternal love," and that therefore "we might cultivate these affections, and grow and increase in the same to all eternity." Thora is my undeviating partner, whose dedication to my scholarship rivals my own. She is my careful companion, whose love simultaneously transcends and improves my thoughts. On top of all of these she is a dear, dear friend. This has been the basis for our relationship since first we met, and still continues to be important to me. I delight in the love and friendship with my wife.

I love my Darling Thora, and trust and pray to continue to do so for many years and on into the eternities.