right now

Elise,

For seven years you have been my best friend and closest companion. You helped me learn how to be more than myself. You kissed me in the rain and said, “I love you.” You taught me how to sing in harmony.

You are the first to assure me when I’m sure that I am wrong, the first to challenge me when I think that I am right, and the first to support me when I am sure that I must try something new.

You are more beautiful, more talented, more intelligent, and more perfect for me than any woman I could have ever imagined or dreamt – but you are something real.

Here, in the witness of all those we care about the most, I promise that I am united with you as a partner and an equal.

I promise to affirm and support you in every endeavor: in your career, at home, and anywhere else.

I promise that I will share with you my success, and seek your guidance in my challenges.

I promise to care for and protect you, through every sickness and concern.

I promise that the attention I devote to you when we are together is the devotion that remains when we are apart.

I promise that this day is neither a beginning nor an end, but a representation of the joy that radiates from us in the moments we share.

I promise that I’m still looking forward to this life with you more than a little bit.

I promise and solemnly vow in the witness of all those who care about us the most that I love you now, that I have loved you only, and that I will love you for the rest of my life.