2OO9 |
Mark came into my life when I was 15 years old in the halls of West Lyon High School. He was a senior who had the entire world before him. He had great dreams, aspirations for the future, and a way of living for the moment. That's what I fell in love with, and his dimples.
Mark and I will celebrate our 6th wedding anniversary this August, but have been together for more than 11 years.
First trip to Paris, 2OO5 |
New York 2OO9 |
My heart breaks when I think of the future and its altered dreams, especially when I think of Mark. While people our age are buying their first house, planning vacations, having their first children, focusing on a career, or just enjoying the "prime of their life," Mark and I are forced to face a different reality. Sure, I like to make jokes and light of the situation, but in all reality CF will most likely tear me away from Mark. CF will force us to say goodbye long before we are ready and long before we have lived out our dreams together.
2OO8 |
Not once has Mark ever complained. Even in my worst of moments, he has never treated me like I am gross, contaminated, or sickly. When I look in the mirror and see how CF has scarred my body both on the surface and within, Mark only sees beauty. When I look at him, I can see how much he loves me: all of me. For goodness sakes he bought me a mini fridge to put next to my little black chair, so I wouldn't have to climb the steps to get medication. Now, that is love. He carries the laundry up/down the stairs and does it, cooks for me to make sure I eat, drives me to a doctor's appointment 6 hours away in a snow storm, became a RN, will run and get whatever I need just so I don't have to climb the stairs, consoles me when the future seems too much to handle, and believes in and supports anything I set my mind to. Did I mention he does the dishes? Yes, you should be envious.
2O1O |
Our future looks different than most peoples' our age, but then again we have never been ones to take the path well traveled. Regardless of what our future holds, I am so thankful for the one who stands beside me every day. I am thankful for the memories, the love we have known, and dreams we still share.
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love them today.
Such a beautiful story, Ashley - you have a wonderful gift of writing. Thanks for sharing with us :)
ReplyDeleteTrue love... A gift so few probably truly experience...
ReplyDeleteI don't know you but I have been moved by your blog in general.God bless you for the encouragement that you give to others.As for Mark,you sure found a rare gem that deserved a special person like you.God bless you and keep you safe everyday.
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