I have grown up in a world where divorce is widespread, cheating common and happy marriages rare. Ever since I was little, for as long as I can remember, I have taken note of this unfortunate phenomenon. I didn't exactly know all the details when I was young, but I knew many friends that had divorced parents or parents that did not seem to really love each other (these are all just my observations, so hopefully people are not offended in any way). I made a promise to myself when I was little that if I got married, it would be a happy one. I told myself I would make sure I married my best friend. And I have my parents to thank for that.

My parents are the definition of a happy marriage. This does not mean they do not fight occasionally or push each other's buttons, but it does mean that they are soulmates. Two halves of one whole. Maybe I've watched too many romantic comedies (more than I care to admit), but I am a sucker for love stories, and I mean real love stories. It is a joy to watch my parents every day and see true happiness. Rom-coms are nice for a while, but they get old with their fairytale endings. You don't get to see a lifetime of hardships and happiness play out in front of you like I do with my parents. They recently celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary but have been together for 29 years (my dad took awhile to pop the question). To say I am lucky and blessed is an understatement. Not only have they given me everything I ever needed and more, they shared with me the greatest (I'm a little biased) love story.

I will not bore everyone with millions of stories, but I will share a few of my observations so people can get a glimpse into their unconditional love. Whenever I am in the car with my mom and dad, it is rare that they are not holding hands. It is such a simple gesture that warms my heart every time I see it. They also refer to each other as best friends. I think it is precious. Husband, wife, mom and dad are the most common words used to describe parents/ a significant other. To hear “best friend” is so reassuring. I never have to wonder how my parents feel about each other. Their words and actions tell me every day. Lastly, their laughter when they are together. It is that all-encompassing, from the bottom of your stomach laughter. They genuinely love to be in each other’s company, and when they are apart, miss one another tremendously. Anyone that spends a few minutes with my parents can immediately see their deep connection. They do not shower each other with gifts, but instead gestures of love that make up an entire lifetime together.

I have learned many lessons from my mom and dad in my 21 years of life, but what to expect in a relationship and how to be treated may be one the greatest. They have set the bar high, and I will never settle for less. I see how a man should treat a woman, what true love means (as compared to temporary love/lust) and how I deserve someone great. I want to make sure I settle down with my best friend and that if I ever start a family, they will grow up to see the same type of love I did. Thank you, mom and dad, for being my greatest teachers. Your lesson is something no textbook or teacher could ever teach me. It has been a gift to see a love like yours. I know that it will only grow stronger as the years go on.