Twenty-Three Years Later, Still in Love

“When love exists, nothing else matters—not life’s predicaments, not the fury of the years, not a physical winding down or scarcity of opportunity.” — Isabel Allende

This past weekend, we celebrated our wedding anniversary—23 years that feel like yesterday. We met in college in 1993, so we’ve known each other for over 30 years. It’s an incredible honor to have met her and to be sharing this life together.

We’ve been through a lot over the years—from moving our family every two or three years during my time in the Army, to long separations during wars and deployments, and everything else that comes with the journey of building a life together.

I’m grateful I found her, and I pray that our love endures to the end of time.

Last year, I wrote the following poem for her—my attempt to capture what I was feeling at the moment.

My Forever Love

My eyes met your beauty, your radiant soul,
In a world of science and innocent discoveries.
My heart, once quiet, was suddenly stirred,
In that moment, I fell madly in love.

Your beauty, a perfect fusion of our rich heritage,
Shines through effortlessly, warming everything within reach.
In you, I’ve found true love,
Love that gives freely and fills my heart deeply.

I can't imagine a life without you,
Incomplete, without purpose, bare.
Seeing your face each day,
Sparks life within my introverted soul.

Your beauty, more radiant as time unfolds,
More than what's seen, it’s the heart you hold.
With every chapter life has shown,
You shine brighter, full of grace.

From our love, a beautiful soul emerged,
A little of both of us, but the best parts from you,
Compassionate, loving, and endlessly kind,
The finest qualities a heart can hold true.

You’re still as beautiful as the first day,
Though three decades have gone by.
Same energy, same love, same you,
Perfect complement to an imperfect soul.

In all my flaws, you make me whole;
In you, I’ve found my true self, my love.

Looking back, that poem captured more than just a moment—it captured us.

Twenty-three years later, I still feel that love—the same strange, powerful emotions that come with falling in love. She is always on my mind, and for an introvert like me, those thoughts and feelings run deep, even if they sometimes get lost in translation.

I can’t imagine life without her, and I’m incredibly grateful that we found each other.

111 thoughts on “Twenty-Three Years Later, Still in Love”

  4. What a beautiful and heartfelt poem, Edward. Soooo touching. See, I told you, you were a poet. Love the photos and your endearing love.. you’re starting to look alike! Beautiful then and now!
    Happy Anniversary to you both. 💕

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  7. It’s so weird to meet your forever person in college because you are basically wildly different humans 20 years later, but you still jive! I also have a forever-met-in-college person. Congrats on your anniversary, sir!

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  8. Happy, Happy Anniversary to both of you! I love your poem…your artistry with words, Edward. And this made me smile:
    …”that poem captured more than just a moment—it captured us…”
    Isn’t that amazing? Summarized so well…why you write, I suspect. Capturing moments. Celebrating with gratitude. Thank you so much for sharing with us! 💝💝💝

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  12. This is what true love looks like. A constancy of heart communion and soul share that no challenge can touch. Certainly a source of life for those living it. You are blessed for being keepers of the flame of love on Earth. Your poem expresses it well, Edward! A touching tribute to your beloved! Much enjoyed! Light and blessings to you both, and congrats on your love! 🙏✨💖🌻🍀

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          1. He’s on the mend but slower than i would like 😩
            I think he is going to school today though so that’s a good sign, thanks for asking Edward ☺️

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  19. First, congratulations to you both! I appreciate you sharing the wonder of true love. The commitment to one another is inspiring. It makes my heart glad to see the covenant of marriage so honored. I must say, though, you have a heart of poetry. Enjoy another awesome year!

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  24. Hurrah for love! Hurrah for longstanding loving relationships! Hurrah for love poems — framed and sitting in a place of honor on a loved one’s desk! I particularly like the photo of you both with all of the tulips. Thank you for sharing your love with the rest of us.

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  25. No doubt, your wife feels your poem expresses everything a woman wants and needs to hear, Edward. Very loving, indeed, as well as a testimony to your wife’s inner and outer beauty. May every day ahead be even happier.

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  39. Happy Anniversary! You are a gorgeous couple! 23 is my fave number so I know it will be your best year yet. lol

    The poem you wrote made me cry happy tears. It is beautiful and shows your soul speaking to your wife. Keep pouring out your heart!

    Yay you guys! Have the best day. ❤️

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  41. what an awesome poem and great dedication. I wish you two and enduring love. you are an inspiration, not only to people here, but to your son! Mike

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