“This is my solemn vow.”

Today, is the 55th Wedding Anniversary of Dave and Sue Arnold, my Dad and Mom!  Yes, back on April 8th, 1961, Mom and Dad stood at the alter at Meridian Street Methodist Church in Indianapolis, IN and vowed to living their lives together.  Lives that would include the joy of parenting three kids, grand-parenting seven grandchildren, as well as many others associated with The Arnold household.  Lives that would include many ups and downs, trials and tribulations, tears shed, and tense moments that frequent many other marital journeys here on earth today.

In a time where marriages lasting 55 years seems to be a bit more uncommon than not, one might ask what the secret has been to Mom and Dad’s marriage.  Well, that’s a question as kids we likely should be a bit more intentional in sitting down and discussing with our parents; however, I think I already have a pretty good idea of their response.  Simply stated, they made a “solemn vow” to one another for which they were “truly committed”.  I don’t know that it was exactly the following; however, I believe it to be close:

“In the name of God, I, Dave, take you, Sue, to be my wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.“

“In the name of God, I, Sue, take you, Dave, to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.“

Yes, while as their children, we likely don’t know everything, I can tell you that I do know my Mom and Dad have experienced “for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health” over their lifetime to date.  I also believe that some of the times “for worse” likely were times where others today would throw in towel and break their solemn vow.  For those reading this who’ve experienced this firsthand, please don’t hear my words too harshly.  It’s someone like you that likely understands how difficult honoring these vows is to do and how they should be commended.

So, please join with me today in celebration and in honor of Dave and Sue Arnold’s 55th Wedding Anniversary.  As the son representing The Arnold household, we’re extremely proud to be called your children and grand-children.  We’re blessed by the example of marriage you’ve passed down to us.

Love you Pappa Dave and Grandma Sue!  Have an awesome day!