My parents have been married my entire life. They both had children from previous marriages. My dad had two daughters, and my mom had one. Then, after a few years of marriage, they had me. With this in mind, I had a different experience than my sisters. I did not have another parent’s house to visit on the weekends, so I was constantly present.
As a result, I saw the hardships of divorce without directly feeling the pain. Additionally, I noticed the things that my parents would do for each other and how I wanted to be treated. My dad has always said that if he can do something for us, he doesn’t see why he shouldn’t. For instance, he goes out of his way to go to the store or surprise my sisters, my mom, and me with gifts. My favorite tradition is that they write each other and us notes. In fact, index cards litter our house–in cabinets and frames are proclamations of love. They represent that the little things are what matter the most.
This example has personally affected my own relationship. I recognize my parents’ habits filtering into my boyfriend and me. Holidays and birthdays are important, and we both love exchanging presents. Furthermore, we even share notes. I have a letter he mailed me pinned in my room at home, and another rests on my desk at college.
Don’t get me wrong; love is not about what you receive in return. Sometimes we misunderstand each other, and the world is crashing down. But, even in the depths of difficulty, I know that there is no one else I would rather struggle with. Likewise, I have seen my parents fight, but I have also seen them fight for each other. Because of that, I have learned how to love healthily. I have also learned how to write a note or two.