One

I think about the last words of the vows
you read a year ago today.
“And to always hold your hand when facing any challenges
and know that they will never carry us apart.”

You said those words unknowing
of what lied just months ahead,
but it didn’t matter.

In a year of challenges,
you kept your promise,
and you didn’t just hold my hand.

You held up my head,
my mind, my heart,
my spirit, my soul.

You held me up,
you held us up,
through challenge after challenge.

But please don’t mistake my appreciation of you for surprise.
I only know you to keep your promises.
Your loyal love has always been the calm water
on which we float upon.

And nearly 9 years later,
and one year later,
I never worry we’ll drift.
Because even after the daily dance of chaotic life,
I still can’t get enough of you.

I still miss you when we’re inches apart.
I still love learning what’s inside your heart.
I still crave you and the way you show your love.
You’re still the only one I see in the room.

I knew when we got married nothing would change.
A testament to us.
I knew you’d still love me the same.

And I loved you then like I love you now,
hopelessly, incessantly, endlessly.
Perhaps it’s fitting we never had an actual honeymoon.
You make our life feel like one.