What is known.

As I prepared to post these photos, I had a bit of a time trying to find the right words.  The words to really say what this means.  But then I remembered some advice I heard in my sophomore English class: “Write what you know.” It was good instruction. So that’s what I’m going to do. Here is what I know-

Sonny and Verona have been married for over 50 years.  More than a half-century. Which is remarkable.  Admirable.  And something to learn from.

I have had the truly deep privilege of knowing this couple my entire life.  I do not say ‘privilege’ lightly.

This is what I know:  They are kind.  Warm-hearted.  A couple whose life is an example to many.  They have a wonderful family of many children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren- who love them with sincerity.

They are happy.

They are farmers at heart, giving their bounty freely–  enjoying the soil, their labor, and the harvest they reap. They love to share. They open their home to so many– to strangers, and to people they know and love. They enjoy ‘having company.’ People have traveled across oceans, arriving as strangers and leaving as dear friends– because of Sonny and Verona’s hospitality.

They are industrious, and hard-working.

I know this:  They are caring, and love others with truth and service. They live simply, and through the years have enjoyed travel and fellowship with others.  They’ve been that way since I’ve known them.  They have been so good to our family in so many ways.   When my parents were a young couple with 5 little girls, I remember traveling with them and listening to their voices, learning from their stories, hearing them sing. Wonderful memories.

They are wise.  Many have benefited from their experience, soft words, and kindhearted wisdom.  They are needed by those who know them.

They take time to enjoy the simple things- the beauty of the day, the fruits of their labor.  They are known for their deep appreciation of music.  To listen to their family sing is as a gift to the hearer.

I know this:  They are humble, and don’t seek the praise of others. When I really think about it, what I have said in this post probably isn’t their style.   But the words I have written aren’t praise.  They are what I know to be true, what I have seen and experienced.  Sonny and Verona have been a couple I have admired all my life.  And to be able to see their relationship and photograph these memories is something I will not soon forget.  Something I will treasure.

Thank you, Sonny and Verona, for so many things above and beyond just the other evening. May you experience many more God-given joys in your life together.

“The better part of one’s life consists of his friendships.”

-Abraham Lincoln