Take 10 minutes and say thanks to a special person in your life.
The teacher who inspired you to greatness . . . mentor who showed you the way . . . friend who remained by your side . . . spouse who makes everything worthwhile . . .
Dear Caron,
There are many times that I wanted to write you this note, but I couldn’t find the right occasion or the proper words to tell you how much you mean to me.
What do you say to someone who makes life worth living? You’re my best friend, confidante, and of course, my wife. I’m so grateful that you entered my life and that we made our shared commitment thirty-two years ago. Given the opportunity, I’d jump at the chance to say “I do” all over again. I can’t even conceive of my world without you.
From the moment we met, I knew that you were the right person for me. Your beautiful smile, your brilliant mind, your kind heart are just a few of the things that I cherish. And so are your caring ways and willingness to put our needs before your own. As you always say, the key to a great relationship is “to find the right person and to be the right person.” That’s so true.
Saying we’re close is an understatement. Even though we spend nearly every waking moment together, I find each moment more precious than the last. Over the years, we’ve learned to finish each other’s sentences and communicate without saying a word. I’m convinced that our shared values and deep commitment to one another are what make this possible. In fact, it truly feels like we’re two who have become one.
It’s fair to say that you know me better than anyone else in the world does — perhaps even better than I know myself. You’ve learned to bring out the best in me as we complement each other’s strengths and compensate for our weaknesses — for that I am forever most grateful.
Thank you for being such an incredible role model to our daughters. They’ve grown up to be wonderful young women who understand the importance of personal values and the ingredients of a meaningful relationship. I see your influence in each of them every day. The limitless love that you give and the nurturing that you provide continue to pay off BIG time.
Over the years, several people have asked me the secret to a successful, lifelong relationship. After giving it some thought, I’d boil it down to shared honesty, trust, respect, and selflessness. When you care deeply about someone, and have his or her best interests at heart, the rest comes naturally.
Our life together continues to be a fairy tale. We’ve laughed together, cried together, but with you by my side, the lows were never so low and the highs were so much more rewarding. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I am the luckiest guy in the world.
Happy Anniversary.
Love,
Frank
Susan says
Wow, Frank, what a touching tribute to your wife and relationship. And how thoughtful of you to share it with all of us.
My very best wishes to both you and Caron.
Susan
Vi says
Frank, Having worked next door to you and Caron over the years, we know the truth of what you have written. You and Caron have a very special relationship and we join with others in wishing you both “Happy Anniversary”.
In relation to the heart of your message, gratitude to those who help us to be the best we can be, it is important for each of us to do what you have done, acknowledge it. May your blog inspire all of us to take time out to do the same for important people in our own lives.
Marc says
That’s beautiful Frank, thank you for sharing and congratulations to you both. I’m sure that you’re both equally lucky though!
All the best,
George says
What a beautiful love letter !
You’re two of the finest, most generous and authentic people we know.
Tom Wrona says
You’re a lucky man Frank. More importantly, you’re a good man. That why you got what you deserved. Good people have a kind of radar that leads them to other good people.
Congratulations to you both.
Tom
Frank Sonnenberg says
You guys are so nice. Thank you.
The way I figure it, we don’t spend enough time telling others the impact that they have on our life. It’s not very hard to do, and it’s so meaningful to the recipient. I received several calls and e-mails today. The funniest one was from a person who said, ” You just got a lot of guys in trouble.” The truth is, I should have written this note several years ago. Oh well.
Vi — We miss you guys. You were always the voice of reason. And, a willing participant for Ben and Jerry’s.
George — You’re too kind. The reason we’re such good friends is because we come from the same mold.
Tom — As you know I’m a big believer in what goes around comes around. More importantly, it’s way more fun living life that way.
Have a wonderful day. And, thanks again for the well wishes 🙂
Best,
Frank
Alexandra Lajoux says
Thanks for this wonderful post, Frank. Congratulations to you and Caron. You’ve captured the essence of how I feel about my own marriage to Bernard after 30 years. It just keeps getting better.
Frank Sonnenberg says
Hi Alex. Thanks so much. Congratulations on being a member of the 25+ year club. You’re part of a very select group. That says a lot about you and Bernard.
Have a wonderful day!
Best,
Frank
Amy says
Frank and Caron,
Sorry I missed sending you Happy Anniversary wishes. This “thank you” note is so touching. Your relationship and values make the world a brighter place for everyone around you. Wishing you many more blissful years together!
Frank Sonnenberg says
You’re very kind Amy. Thanks so much for taking the time to write to us. We appreciate it very much 🙂
Terri says
What a beautiful love letter to Caron! It takes two special people to make a loving pair.John and I really enjoyed spending time with you both this year, it was so much nicer than the hello-goodbye of the previous years! We look forward to seeing you again next year.
Frank Sonnenberg says
Hi Terri. It’s so nice hearing from you. We, too, had a wonderful time this year. It’s much more special when we get to spend our vacation with wonderful folks like John and yourself. We’re looking forward to seeing you both again soon 🙂
Best,
Frank