I wanted to write a gushy post his week about the guy who has been my Valentine since 1973. I like the grandfather-version of him even better than I liked the handsome college student who smoked a pipe and wore platform shoes. But I’m feeling much more grateful than gushy. Gratitude, I think, is a more lasting emotion.

I am grateful for the perspective of years.

For the comfort of routine.

For the victories won through tough times.

For the promise of good days ahead.

Most of all, I am grateful for the mercy of God that brought us together when we were young and foolish and held us together while we grew.