3 cheers to 3 decades of togetherness

This post was due a year and a week ago. Yes, I've become lazy and twitterified and not spending enough time to blog. But if I had to write after such a long lull, it had to be something which is really close to my heart and something that I care about. And this is it.

Yesterday was my parents' anniversary. Thirty-first. As they went about the standard daily routine and special day routine, I couldn't help observing them and recollecting a bunch of memories and realize what makes them so strong as a couple.

My parents have always been envied and admired at the same time for the camaraderie they share. I feel proud and happy to say that they're one of the few couples of their age who are quite open about their fondness and caring for each other. It's a fact that Dad's siblings and extended family reach out to Mom first to inform about any occasion or seek any help. She built every relationship on her own, talking to them, getting to know them and adjusting to them. Similarly, Dad is one of the few men of his age who cares less for rituals or attention than the people and relationships, which is exactly what many people take advantage of. But they know their priorities in life and maintain them that way always.

Both of them are short-tempered with each other, fighting over silly things which almost every couple fight about, but when they're hurt because of someone else, they have the strength and dignity to take it in their stride. I've never seen them get down to squabbling with others and show disrespect towards anybody. Yet, when people try to be rude to them, Dad makes it clear in no uncertain terms that they can't be messing with Mom, and vice-versa. 

I've learnt how to care for family from them. I've learnt how to be patient with bitchy and nasty relatives, to be confident and overcome personal and professional challenges, to build and maintain relationships with new people and to change with time.

I've had a very safe and happy upbringing and wasn't really exposed to most of the mean things in life since my parents chose to face them and shield us from it. And one day when I decided to get married, I suddenly realized the responsibility and expectations it brings - I found it difficult to sail through initially. Circumstances suddenly threw me into situations where I had to stand by myself and take decisions that would affect me quite a bit in the years to come. I'd think I'd slip, but all it would take is a phone call to Mom and Dad and a warm assurance from them that nothing can go wrong as long as I have them - and I'd gain the strength to face the situation head on.

Whenever I'm in a situation where I'm unsure of things and need to take a bold call without a clear vision, I count on them. I know my Dad will say 'I'm here', and Mom will say 'You don't need me. You can take care.' Cheers to the most wonderful couple on earth.