Seven Years

Today is our wedding anniversary. Seven years ago, I married the woman I wanted to share the rest of my life with. I recall the nerves very well. I recall also the love and affection shown by family and friends and the feeling of being the centre of everyone's attention for just one day. And how quickly that day went, the reception speeches, the excellent food, the partying 'til late and the taxi home arriving as man and wife. I don't know where the seven years have gone. They have flown past. Things have changed of course. Little did we know back then that we would be in the situation we are now. We have a son who we love more than anything. Our relationship is often tested to its limit and there have been times when it's felt at risk. But if anything, the bond is stronger now than it has ever been. I'm a nightmare to live with, I know that. My wife deserves better, I know that too. The truth is that without my wife, her strength and support, I wouldn't be here now. My wife said recently at a counselling session that I am no longer the person she married seven years ago. I was a little taken aback by this, but on reflection I believe she does see a different person. Depression does this. But deep inside, I'm still the same person who fell in love with her and still loves her, more than I show.