Ten years ago today, just moments before a glowing orange orb gracefully descended into the choppy, post storm waves off Makena Beach in Maui, three hump back whales breached in silhouette against the setting sun. And, as if to prove that their presence and proferred blessings were not some kind of cruel illusion, the mother whale, her newborn baby and her male escort breached a second time…and then a third, so that H and I could truly absorb the magnificence of the wedding gift that had just been bestowed upon us. So much has happened in the ensuing ten years of our married life together. We have run a business together on a relentless 24/7 time clock, and believe me, there were times when that proved to be too much for any couple. We figure that much like dogs, each calendar year we have spent together is equivalent to “7 dog years” together. We are now on our third cancer together, two for H and one for me, not that this is a race either one of us wants to run ever again. We have battled and beaten the beast of menapause, crashing global economies, horror stories trying to run an honest, straighforward business in a world where those values are defiled by entitled workers and excessively opulent policy makers sipping cocktails high on some political hill. We have fought and lost the battle to bring our families together in love and forgiveness. We are humbled by life now, focusing on ourselves, striving each day to become better, more loving and forgiving, less judgmental and uncompassionate. It’s a long and lonely road to stay true to, but far better than the road we have travelled so far. One day at a time. One step at a time. One breath at a time. Love and light to all on this day of Love and Valentines!
Feb. 14, 2013
Judy Richter 