Wow. Outside of my blood-related family, I've not known many people that long. On the anniversary of anything you take inventory of your memories, but in the case of your spouse, there's so much to remember.
Of course it has been a little work, as most relationships are, but we've managed to overcome most everything. We still have our "issues," but we never go to bed angry with each other, and even our simple presence is a source of comfort and support for each other. I can't imagine life any other way.
With specific reference to our wedding, I'll never forget arriving on Kauai and driving to our hotel. It was dark by then, so it wasn't really clear what we had arrived to. There was a little uncertainty and apprehension about going there. I had a similar feeling way back in the corner of my mind regarding getting married to Stephanie, mostly because I didn't want to end up like my own parents.
The next morning, I opened the curtains to see a sunrise in the middle of the Pacific, and my new wife in the light of that sunrise. I opened the suite door to see the most amazing mountains and landscape. I was immediately at peace regarding Kauai, and any minor doubt about our ability to function in a marriage was gone. Being married to Stephanie is like being in paradise.
Now if we could just get back to Kauai. :) Happy anniversary, baby!
Marriage does take a lot of work, trust, and above all forgiveness. Coming from someone who was on the verge of divorce, I'm happy to say that with love and forgiveness, you can overcome just about anything. Diversity only makes a marriage stronger.