I remember Mike’s face as he looked at me walking down the aisle on our wedding day. As our eyes locked on one other, there were tears in his eyes and a joy I had never seen before. I know the same look was reflected right back at him. People would later tell me that the smile on my face as I walked towards my groom simply radiated joy and love that lit up the church. It makes me smile to even think about today.

Today Mike and I celebrate 26 years of marriage. I can’t tell you that it has always been easy or that my eyes have always radiated joy and love, but I can tell you that my marriage, next to my faith, is the most important part of my life and it has always sustained me through the darkest days. Without it I would not have my family- my children; I would not be receiving the graces that flow from the Sacrament of Marriage that not only strengthens our bond together but that strengthens our family and every aspect of our lives; and I would not be nearly as close to God as I am today. Through my marriage to Mike I am made into a better version of myself. My marriage and my husband lead me to heaven.

I will write more about the sacrament of marriage later but tonight I want to thank my husband for the 26 years that we have been “Mike and Michelle Fritz”. There were very few people that thought an 18 year old girl and a 19 year old boy would make it in the world together. Everyone told us the odds were stacked up against us. But, with faith and God, hope, trust, forgiveness, and love we have made it to this day. It has not always been easy but it has always been worth it.

I love you, Mike. Thank you for the life we have made together.