nine

shared sleep

We were two people with wounds that ran deep.

Me? I had unresolved issues with overprotective parents who, despite their obvious love for me, choked me with their judgmental behavior and expectations. I had been in two relationships, the second of which had ended very badly and nearly resulted in me leaving college for good. Clinically bipolar, suicidal tendencies, sudden isolationist behavior contrasted with needy-girlfriend behavior...I didn't have very good chances in getting anywhere solid with anybody, despite whatever I told myself in the beginning.

Him? He grew up in a tough neighborhood without a lot of money and a handful of dependent, self-indulgent relatives. His father was very strict with him. As the eldest, he has a lot of responsibilities and he's working really hard to get into med school. His first and only relationship before me had ended terribly, with her cheating on him even though he had stuck by her for almost three years. He has epilepsy. He also has depressive episodes.

Two depressed people clinging to each other in a time of desperate need. That's what it looked like to everyone else. Fresh from the shipwrecks of our own ruined relationships, we turned to another one for the addictive oxytocin fix. Everyone said we didn't stand a chance. My scumbag ex gave us six months tops. Even our friends doubted that we would stay together for very long.

But it's been nine months, and we're still together, just as in love as the very first day. Today marks the ninth month, and I'm happy to have come this far and changed for the better because of what we share. Everyday I am thankful for the small blessings. Without this relationship, I'd be down in the ground.

Instead I am pursuing the degree I want, slowly improving my family relationship, making dreams and goals for myself and sharing all the best parts of this life with the one responsible for so much happiness in my life. I wish I could find a way to thank Daryl for it all, and I figure that I can do that by giving him just as much joy as he has given me.

Today is perfect. :)

Comments

[msbeesy]

I almost didn't want to comment on this, because it felt like intruding on your special day. But in good times and bad, I feel its important to know that someone is there. I smiled reading this. Hearing in your words a similar story to mine and knowing how well someone who 'fits' can make your life beautiful even when everything around you looks like shit.I'm glad you're happy, and he makes you happy. xxL

[absinthe]

Thank you so much for your kind words. It's been a great journey. :)