“Love is that condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.” — Robert A. Heinlein
Dearest Aparna,
As we celebrate 34 years of marriage, I am in awe of the incredible journey we’ve shared. These 34 revolutions around the Sun have been filled with joy, challenges, laughter, and tears, all navigated hand in hand. You have been my rock, my confidante, and the love of my life. Celebrating 34 years of marriage with you is a testament to the strength and beauty of a lifelong partnership. Is this milestone just a number for us? No way, it represents years of shared experiences, unwavering support, and a deep bond that has only grown stronger with time.
Thank you for giving me a love so profound that I cannot imagine my life without it. You are the best thing that has ever happened to me and to everyone who is part of our lives. When someone asked me to pick the best moment of these 34 years – I knew they expected a different answer, but I also knew it was impossible to choose a single moment – I realized that 1,07,22,24,000 represents the countless moments of happiness we’ve shared, each one more precious than the last, that every single second with you has been a treasure.
The journey began 34 years ago when two hearts decided to embark on a life together in Dharwad on this day 34 years back and an unseasonal rain. Most of the anniversaries have been like that ever since – a surprise shower. Like in every Indian marriages, early years were filled with excitement and discovery as we navigated the newness of married life. From setting up our home to learning each other’s quirks and habits, these initial years laid the foundation for a strong and enduring relationship – it was a life lesson in action – Opposite values complement each other.
“Looking back, we realized early enough that marriage is a journey filled with love, challenges, growth, and countless memories. As in anyone’s our journey has not always been easy, but your unwavering support and calming presence have seen us through every storm. Even when the boat was rocked, you stood by us, offering reassurance and strength. Your love and dedication have been the foundation of our family, and I am forever grateful for your presence in my life.
If I could go back to 31st March 1991 and relive these 34 years, I wouldn’t change a thing. I would choose you all over again, without hesitation. Your role as a mother, both to our biological and Manasik children, has been nothing short of extraordinary. You have been the silent strength, letting others speak while you listened with a heart full of love. Our journey together has been a testament to the power of love, commitment, and partnership.
No marriage is without its challenges, and ours is no exception. There were times when life tested your resolve, but each challenge only served to strengthen your bond. Whether it was navigating financial difficulties, health issues, or personal disagreements, we faced each obstacle together, never allowing anyone (yes, no one!!!) to crowd the relationship emerging stronger and more united. It was never always easy, but we made it work, together. You may not always see the glass as half full, but you have a unique way of making everyone around you believe in the impossible. For us, it has been a combination of love, respect, communication, and compromise. We have learned to appreciate each other’s strengths and accept each other’s flaws. We grew together, adapting to the changes that life brings and always finding new ways to support and uplift each other.
Our children, Divya and Vishnu, are the greatest testament to our love. They have grown into remarkable individuals, embodying the values and love we have nurtured in our family. Divya’s kindness and Vishnu’s strength are reflections of your unwavering dedication as a mother. Watching them grow and succeed has been one of the greatest joys of our lives, and I am grateful every day for the family we have built together.
As we celebrate 34 years of marriage, it is also a time to look ahead to the future. There are still many adventures to be had, dreams to be pursued, and memories to be made. The journey is far from over, and with you by my side, I can face whatever the future holds with confidence and joy. What an incredible 41 years it has been since we first met, and 34 years as my beloved co-passenger in life. I am eternally grateful for you, my irreplaceable “better half.” Here’s to many more years of love, laughter, and togetherness.
Here is a the song as a tribute to you that was discovered a while ago and but bookmarked as a tribute to be posted today
Loads of love, Happy Opal Anniversary!