One of the best parts of my job when covering an event is discovering the story within a story. It’s like biting into a piece of chocolate, only to find the soft gooey center inside. A wonderful and surprising treat. After being on my feet for four hours straight, I finally decided to sit down at one of the many picnic tables spread out on the fields of the Lagoner Farmers Market. I was covering their Annual Strawberry Festival, and sitting across from me were Marlene and Stanley Niles. They had come back to Williamson from Canada to visit their youngest son and his family, and were thoroughly enjoying themselves. They had retired in 1995 and moved north to their own little piece of land. I looked at this couple sitting side by side, laughing like newlyweds. I asked them how long they had been married. “We just celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary” said Stanley, and put his arm around his bride, pulling her closer. The entire family celebrated with a luau style party, and everyone had a great time, they reported. “We were married on Flag Day, June 14, 1958, and we just renewed our vows.” Marlene was smiling ear to ear and pointed out the gold necklaces they were both wearing, in honor of the year. “We renewed our vows at 25 too!” she said and leaned in closer as if to share a secret. “….and we used the same minister!” ”Its my brother Ray” grinned Stanley and they laughed in unison. “Every 25 years he says to us ‘see you in 25’ and he said it again this year. I don’t doubt that he will be there. Of course, he’ll be 94 by then, but who cares? We intend to be there.” Giving his sweetheart a quick peck on the cheek, she agreed with a nod of her head. I learned more about the couple as the afternoon went on, and how much living they had done in those short 50 years together! Stanley was once a firefighter for the Lincoln Fire Department, and Marlene the President of the Ladies Auxiliary. Nowadays they spend their time going full speed up in Canada, he as a curler, and she involved with other charitable activities. They both love gardening, and their house is ‘almost finished.’ As I bid them goodbye, I felt their tenderness for each other and for life itself. I am not naïve enough to think there may have been some years harder than others. But what a wonderful gift I received that sunny Saturday in June, to have met the meaning of love and commitment, and to witness it being carried out. Right before my very eyes. |
