To My Wife, With Love, On Our 15th Anniversary

An Irish celebration marks the beginning of our tale
And as our night progressed, I must confess, all others began to pale
As I walked you to your car, who would have thought that such a man
Could ever be so happy with a hug and touch of your hand?

Our romance moved quite quickly, despite our long miles apart
I fell in love, a gift from above, as you took and owned my heart
Budgets were cut quite sharply to afford a wedding band
That would forever take its place upon your beautiful left hand

We started out quite slowly – our incomes were so small
Our jobs were new, our expenses too, yet we had wherewithal
We did the best we could yet Hamburger Helper was always bland
But it was a feast while upon our couch, as we ate and I held your hand

Time went by so quickly and we saw the build of our first house
And in those years, you had, my dear, entrenched me as your spouse
Pets, work, house, fun – a rotation without a plan
And despite our growing years you never tired of holding my hand

Careers took off, our foundation grew, and happiness did reign
Despite loss, and regardless of cost, we prevailed through life's pain
We've seen both sadness and wonder, things we can and cannot understand
And through it all you stood with me - a firm grip on my hand

I know I'm not the man I was, my looks and health aren't the same
It'd not be a surprise if you narrowed your eyes and decided to complain
Your love has been the greatest gift, more I cannot justify or command
It's a honor to have spent that time with you and find you still holding my hand

Fifteen years has come and gone, how quick our time did go
Despite our years and infrequent tears there is something you must know
I promise my best and love to you until the hourglass' last sand
If you grant me fifteen more years, and you let me hold your hand