Monday, December 7, 2009

Reflections on 59 years

I'm having a little bit of trouble of late. Trying so hard to take care of everything, mostly by myself. Bills to pay, pills to take, floors to sweep and beds to make. It's hard when you are all alone to think about why you have to do things for people, living out a life in solitude yet connected to others outside these walls. 

Who cares if the floors are dusty and I sometimes do not make my bed. I might want to crawl back into it. My toes get cold and I shiver so the quilts I have made cover me to make me warm. Elbert was always like a heater and I could snuggle close to feel his love and his warmth but he isn't here to keep me warm. He's nice and toasty where he lives these days. Why, I ask myself. Why try so hard to do so much. It all seems useless and then I know the answer. 

Generations before me are gone but generations are coming behind me. The children, the grandchildren and the great-grands. I must struggle on to set an example for them, to show them that love is abiding even though Elbert and I are apart. That we are going to celebrate 59 years of a wonderful marriage this coming Thursday.

Has it been 59 years, Lord? It seems like yesterday that we eloped. In todays world this younger generation needs to know that 'through sickness and in health' means just that. Now, Elbert and I are aging and the years are adding up but I must get busy..... pay my bills, take my pills, sweep my floors and even make my bed. The younger generation is watching.
1950                                                                                    2009                        

12 comments:

Anonymous said...

I know this anniversary is hard but I pray that God will surround you with His peace and comfort. You certainly have been a caring and loving wife and a wonderful example for all of us as well as your family. The photos of you and Elbert are heart-warming. Blessings to you both this Thursday.

Dolores said...

Oh my gosh Latane, you know how to make a girl cry!!!
You have such a way with your words and thoughts.

I already miss cuddling with David, and he's still here, but he doesn't like to cuddle anymore.

The pictures are wonderful!!!! You and Elbert were and are such a handsome couple! I know your children and grandchildren are so proud of the example you have set for them......

Thank you again for an inspirational and touching post...
Love,
Dolores

judi/Gmj said...

Watching closely so I can follow your footsteps and example.
Judi

Martha Z said...

You set a beautiful example for your family and for us all. A lovely, loving soul shines though this post and thorough your entire blog.

Susannah said...

Oh, Latane...my thoughts exactly. Why should go on if we really don't feel like it...and then I say...to show my children and grandchildren that this is how you act and how you are at this time in our lives. This year I did not feel like putting up our large tree in the livingroom but my husband reminded me of my own words.....show the kids that we do!I didn't mean that to be the same situation you are in...it was just an example. Speaking of examples? You are one of the greatest examples I know. I have learned so much from you. You should be very proud of yourself.
You are a wonderful inspiration to me.

Friends,
Susannah

A Colorful World said...

This was a wonderful post, Mom, and all your commenters really touched me. Everyone really seemed inpired by your wisdom in this, and I am too...Happy Anniversary to my sweet, sweet parents! I'm watching, and learning, I hope, from all you have presented by your lives over these years. It's been priceless...you guys are priceless.

Linda Jennings said...

This is a great post. You are a real inspiration to me. And, I just want you to know you are in my thoughts and prayers everyday, as I know each day with Elbert is unpredictable.

JeanMac said...

What a beautiful post - and pictures. I know how you feel.

Peggy said...

Hi Latane,a beautiful thought provoking post as usual.All the previous comments have said what I would like to say. You are the rock of your family and a shining example to everyone, but I know you do get down some days but that is when you should lean on your loving family and let them take care of you for a change.I love the photos of you and Elbert at the party dancing together.
Happy Anniversary on Thursday to you both.

karen said...

Happy Anniversary!!! You can go spend it with Elbert at the home and it will be wonderful for the both of you. God Bless and Merry Christmas!!!

Tattyanne said...

Thankyou! you are a real inspiriration to me. My nanna has departed this world, but if she lives on in you.

Joy said...

And the younger generation will see and remember and admire that. You are a courageous lady.