... Because, your life touched mine

 "Grow old along with me, the best is yet to be, 

The last of life, for which the first was made."

 

— Robert Browning

     
     Browning's immortalized poem reminds me of how fortunate I was to "grow old" with my chosen life's mate of 55 years, by my side. 
     

     Last week, with the passing of another wedding anniversary (it would have been our 61st), I found it difficult keeping all kinds of memories from swirling about. To only pick one moment, to cherish, save and keep — I've gathered a heap, embedded in my heart. 

     Good feelings last a lifetime, and unfortunately bad feelings sometimes do too. Though, I was blessed many times over and left with mostly good memories, we would be naive to think any marriage is the perfect one. We are too human for that!  
     Nels, you were in my life for so many seasons — and reasons. As two people travelling together through life, we shared our dreams — the good times and the bad. 
     Thanks for the moments when you picked me up, when the road was hard to climb. When you left, a piece of my heart was lost. But, the healing of the heart takes place over time and we begin to embrace the wonder of life again. 
     I have learned that, 
"...tomorrow the sun will rise again."  

     "I sent the following poem to you during our two long years of courtship. It still reminds me of the 'special stranger' that entered my life so long ago, and whose memory still inspires me to keep climbing ever upward."

— Beulah Eagles  

Because Your Life Touched Mine 

 

We met as casual strangers, and in the usual way 

We said," I'm pleased to meet you," for want of more to say. 

But, soon there came a feeling that something mighty fine 

Within my soul was growing, because your life touched mine. 

So, as the passing moments developed into days 

I found myself reflecting, upon your kindly ways. 

And all the time this feeling, that something mighty fine 

Within my soul was growing, because your life touched mine. 

Your life of true devotion, and your determined will 

Shall be my inspiration, to climb the steepest hill, 

To fight the hardest battle, to keep myself in line, 

And be a loyal Christian, because your life touched mine.   

     

     What do I miss?  I miss your touch, your loving smile, and mischievous grin. I miss hearing "I love you," which, you told me often. 
     
     I miss the quiet, comfortable moments of just being together. I miss your strong, protective presence and wise counsel, as together we made decisions. 
     

     I miss the companionship we enjoyed over the years, especially in the twilight season of our lives. 
     

     And, I especially miss those quiet moments at end of day, as together, we rehearsed the day's events, reminding each other of God's goodness to two of His children. 

     
     Before our eyes closed in slumber, you would often quote, what became our life's prayer, the following: 

     

     "Our times are in your hands, O Lord, we wish them there; our lives, our all, we leave entirely to your care. Our lives are in your hands, why should we doubt or fear, our Father's hand will never cause His child to shed a needless tear."  

In quiet thoughts I live again 
The days that used to be. 
How rich in kindness, love and care, 
How dear you were to me.  

     

     Nels, our "love affair" shall never end. May all who read this, "Cherish the relationships you have with those you love."

— beulah

     P.S. Here's an added bonus for you. It's the story of our wedding day, as published in my autobiography, "Seeds of Love: one woman's story of her life, love and legacy." Enjoy.