The Trump Card

It will be thirty-two years ago this upcoming March, when I stood facing my Michael on the rim of the Grand Canyon promising to "love, honor, and cherish in SICKNESS and health." At the time, I ignorantly imagined that sickness meant colds, sniffles, maybe a broken leg. My twenty-four year old self had no idea just what sickness could be nor did I know how much it would effect Michael, me or our relationship. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I played the most unexpected card in the game of love, life, and marriage. We had no idea just what we had promised to each other so many years ago.

Michael has been steadfast in his care, concern, and support during these last few months. He has brought me gallons of tea, dozens of blankets, driven to numerous appointments, and murmured words of comfort...He has loved me so completely during this journey. I know that the cancer has frightened both of us, each in a different way. But I also know that it has given us new ways to express our affection and regard for the other.

If I were to find the silver lining in the last few months, it would be that after all the many things we have seen, felt, done, and discussed in our marriage, we found another avenue to take as we travel through life together, although we rarely play cards anymore.