A few years ago, when it seems I had more time for things like that, I sometimes made my own greeting cards. I have a good assortment of nice papers for cards and envelopes. Sometimes I’d make a collage for the front; other times I’d cut a section of a drawing, painting or print and glue it in place. Inside, I’d write my sentiments. Often, I’d choose a quote or a bit of poetry to compliment my good wishes.
Once, for an anniversary card for friends, I chose a couple lines from a poem by Carl Sandburg:
It is good to be Warm…
and sure of Tomorrow
At first, it seemed like the perfect sentiment. Then, I worried. Did that sound cynical? Bland? No talk of love or romance; no hints at passion. Was this even appropriate for an anniversary card? In the end, I went with it, hoping it would be taken in the spirit that was intended.
Personally, when I think of the beauty of a long-term relationship, and the things that I lack having been alone these many years, these are exactly the things that seem important. I am a stubborn, “bull-headed” woman, set in my ways and probably unfit for living peacefully with anyone. My marriage was clearly not working, and I’ve now been divorced for more than thirty years. It has been a decade or more since I’ve been in any kind of committed relationship. I am not unhappy with my life.
Still, there are times when it would be nice to have an arm around me, or a hand to support me. It would be such a pleasure to have another person to turn to when something doesn’t work, or something needs repair. Someone to talk to when everything seems right, or when things go wrong. I am fortunate to have dear friends and family who are often there to fill in the gaps in my life. I am also lucky that I truly like being alone. I have to admit, this has become a greater concern with age.
There is a calmness of spirit when there is someone beside you, who has shared enough life and experience with you to create a deeper bond and mutual understanding. To be fully known and accepted for who you are is a blessing. There is an ease of words and movement then, that never quite measures up when you’re on your own. That’s my experience, anyway.
cindyricksgers 
I share your experience and sentiments exactly Cindy. Well written.
Thank you, Sherry, for reading, and for these comments.
What you are saying is exactly right, Cindy–calmness of spirit…shared experiences…ease of words and movement.an ease of words and movement I have all of those things, and I am guilty of taking them all for granted when I become frustrated with always having to accommodate someone else in the course of my day. Sometimes I long to be in charge of my own destiny, without having to consider whether my plans will be interfering with someone else’s “calmness of spirit.” But then I realize what I have, and I feel grateful. It is a blessing, and one which I need to appreciate more.Thank you for your insight.
Thanks, Kate, for these comments. I think it’s hardest to appreciate what we have, and easier to look at the circumstances of others with envy. I need to look at all my “aloneness” offers. It is probably what’s best for me, in my life.
I love that sentiment! Who needs all the mush all the time when love is deeper than mush. Gorgeous photo too!
Thanks, Laura, for these comments. Yes, I think the bottom line is the deep love and companionship, the warmth and security. It shows up in older couples, ans they worry and tend to one another.
You’re welcome Cindy. 🙂
Sometimes it seems the grass is always greener… I just celebrated 20 years of marriage with Husby and getting married was indeed the right thing for us to do. However, once in a while (sometimes when reading your posts) I imagine a solitary life and it wouldn’t be such a bad thing.
I believe the universe gives us what we should have, and our imaginations run wild with the alternatives.
Exactly! It’s hard to appreciate all the good that is right there, in whatever life one has. Personally, I’m sure the life I have is the best one for me…most of the time. Thanks for reading, Sara, and for these comments!
Plus, I’m going to a wedding today and included the Sandburg quote in the card – I think it’s lovely!
Oh, thanks for telling me this! I think it’s one of the best. Another of my favorites is “May you live all the days of your life.” I can’t remember who said it…maybe Jonathan Swift?