What Is More Valuable than Silver and Gold?
Harmony - a pleasing arrangement of parts. It refers to being in a state of agreement or in accord. A third definition offered by Webster is an interweaving of different accounts into a single narrative. This definition is most reminiscent of the marital relationship - where two people intertwine their separate lives - their quirks, likes, pet peeves - into one union, for the purpose of forging a lasting bond. How fitting it is that harmony is thought to be the basis for the celebration of the 25th wedding anniversary. We all know that love is required, but what does it take, if not harmony, for a marriage to last for a quarter century? W. Somerset Maugham expressed this beautifully in explaining that, “We are not the same persons this year as last; nor are those we love. It is a happy chance if we, changing, continue to love a changed person.”
In our culture, continuing to love that changed person for 25 years, within the bonds of matrimony, is commemorated with the “silver jubilee”, traditionally celebrated with gifts crafted from the precious metal. Silver is valuable, as is the life that two people create and share in that quarter century that passes so very quickly. The cherished nature of silver, a treasured commodity, is an appropriate metaphor for an enduring marriage. A wise, but unknown author wrote, “Being married means giving it your all to your spouse daily - even when you don’t feel like it and even when it hurts. It means looking beyond yourself and giving to them because they are a part of you.” Having been married for 29 years, I can attest to the veracity of this statement.
Once upon a time, two college students were introduced. Their names were Holly and Jeff. They fell in love and married - venturing out on an unknown road - in unity and harmony. Throughout their 25 years together, they welcomed two wonderful children into their family. They are now living in North Carolina and serving in the health care field. I can assure you that they - individually - are changed people, but the beautiful thing is that they are continuing to love the changed person that is their life partner. How precious...more precious than silver - or gold.
Blessings ~
Lisa