I still have the rose you gave me for Valentines Day on my desk.  Nearly two weeks, and it is prettier than the first day.  This of course, reminds me of you.

When I walked into my office this morning, the sweet fragrance was near intoxicating.  This also makes me think of you.

The rose is more elegantthan when first I glimsped it, petals opening into a rich fullness that takes my breath away and this of course, is also reminiscent of you.

In SO many ways, YOU are that rose.  It is the perfect analogy to describe you.  No, I am not speaking of the thorns.

For 25 years, we have been wed, each year better than the last.  25 years, and you are prettier then the first time I ever laid eyes on you; prettier and more perfect than ever before.  Just like the rose, you continue to blossom and bloom.  You are more elegant, vibrant and intoxicating than ever before.

Every time I see you, I am marvel at your essence, much as I do the rose.  When first we met, you were but a bud, pretty and delicate, yet there was not even a hint of what a full and majestic piece of perfection you would one day become.  Much like the bud of the rose, you have flowered into something so beautiful, so perfect, as to take my very breath away.  Watching you blossom, seeing the bud become a rose; well it has been a magical treat to view the metamorphosis.  It has been an honor to be the gardener, helping you along the way, yet always being not much more than a spectator, enthralled with each unfurling of delicate new leaves.

I am mesmerized by the rose.  I am hypnotized by it’s beauty.  I am entranced by it’s grace; captivated by it’s elegance.  I love it’s simplicity and I adore it’s splendor.  I am moved by the rose in ways I could never put into words.  Now take this paragraph and substitute “the rose,” for “Deborah” and this statement is even more of a truth.

The scent of the rose is a reminder of its presence and I am reminded of your presence with every breath that I take.  You intoxicate me by just being near, you linger upon my thoughts and consume my mind when we are apart.  As I am filled with the scent of the rose, I am made complete and whole by your very own essence.

The rose, as are you; is majestic and thrilling in it’s natural state, stretched out, elegant and graceful in a garden full of natural wonders.  You are both also as completely captivating, magical and awe-inspiring if placed in a beautiful vase of delicate crystal, adorned in finery, yet standing out above all.  Though the surroundings may fade, the greenery fall away and the ribbons dull with age; the sheer perfection of the rose that you are, only stands more majestically and with more elegant grace, than ever before. 

I am as enchanted by the rose, as moved and adoring of, as much in sheer awe of and with as much admiration; as I am with God’s most perfect miracle, that is you.  I am thankful for the gift of the rose, and I am thankful to its creator, for you.
©2007 J.L. Day