Read this short work of fiction below, and be sure to let us know what you think in the comments section.
A husband and wife are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary at a fancy restaurant in town. They spare no expense in treating themselves to an extravagant meal, and after dessert is cleared away and they’re finishing off the last dregs of their after-dinner drinks, the husband grasps one of his wife’s hands in both of his.
“My darling,” he says, eyes shining with emotion. “I know I’m not the best with words, so I prepared a little something for tonight. Is it alright with you if I read what I wrote for you?”
She is taken aback at her husband’s request, but nods and motions for him to continue. He clears his throat and takes out a piece of paper from his pocket with trembling hands.
“These past 50 years have not always been the easiest for us, and we’ve certainly had our ups and downs.
I remember sitting behind you in English class our first year of high school. When you turned around and asked to borrow a pencil on that first day, I could barely find one in my bag because of how taken with you I was. I’m sure my hands were shaking when I handed it over, but you didn’t say a word about it.
Though I didn’t have the courage to ask you on a date until senior year, I was overjoyed when you said yes. Prom could not have been better. Thank you for agreeing to go with me, regardless of the fact that I wasn’t brave enough to approach you before then. I will always look fondly upon that picture we took at the bottom of your staircase. I may not have been smiling in it, but I hope you know I was over the moon.
Our post-high school years weren’t the easiest, what with work and the kids and trying to make ends meet. The only thing that got me through those long shifts and the horrible commute was knowing that you and the kids would be at home, waiting for me. I may have been a mess, but I always felt that you were right there with me. I’m sorry if I haven’t made it clear before, but you’re my rock.
In short, my wonderful wife, I love you so much. I wouldn’t trade these past 50 years for the world. I think I’m the luckiest man in the world.”
As he folds his speech and puts it back into his pocket, she absolutely beams at him. “I don’t know how I can follow that up. That was beautiful, dear. I suppose I can say that I feel exactly the same way.”
His eyes light up. “You do?”
“Yes, of course I do. I also think you’re the luckiest man in the world.”