Thursday, April 30, 2009

Agape

On the 19th of April 2009, Prince Philip - the Duke of Edinburgh and consort to Queen Elizabeth - made headlines around the world as the longest-serving royal consort. 57 years and still going strong.

That in itself was an interesting factoid, but what caught my attention was Queen Elizabeth's speech made during their golden anniversary celebration ending with simple, touching words:

"He is someone who doesn't take easily to compliments, but he has, quite simply, been my strength and stay for all these years..."

In this fast-paced and increasingly borderless world that we live in, our choices in life keep expanding and it often becomes confusing, even difficult, to develop and maintain a love such as theirs. Couples form, walk together for a little while, and eventually part ways for a variety of reasons.

Yet I take heart when I hear news of long-lasting relationships. They inspire and spur us to seek this ideal of love that provides a shelter from the storm, a respite from hectic routine, and a peaceful sanctuary of retreat.



In hac spe vivo.