To My Wife on her 70th Birthday

God at least got one day of rest. 

It is now nearly a half century that we have been together. And through all those decades, she has been an indefatigable force. Always doing, always with a task on her plate. And never complaining. 

I, as those of you who know me, or have read enough of my ruminations well understand, am a fully non-functioning human being. I think I hid the depth of my incompetence from clear view until our honeymoon, more than 46 years ago. When I could not change a flat tire on our rental car, could not even remotely assemble the jack to attempt to perform this undertaking, I believe the cat emerged from the bag.

Throughout the years my wife has had to live a double life, hers and mine. Making certain that I somehow survived each day despite myself, shepherding me from first light of day to last. Married not to a person but a series of inadequacies.

I often say she just gave up many years ago, consigned to this existence forever and a day. But she is much more than I give her credit for. She has forgiven me my daily trespasses  and embraced me despite myself. She has allowed me a dignity I do not deserve. She has given me the sense that I am not only protected and cared for, but loved.

My wife turns 70 tomorrow. She refuses to allow me to treat that day with the excess I wish to give it. As is her way, the day will pass quietly. Her life is putting one foot in front of the other. Doing what life demands of her. Doing it extraordinarily well and without fanfare. 

I do not deserve such a woman. But each of us should be fortunate enough to have someone like that in our life.

Happy birthday from your biggest fan. With all my heart.

PS- in a certain demonstration of instant karma, I am now sitting in my car waiting for AAA to come change my exceedingly flat tire (my wife seated next to me in silent disbelief)