ARMY OFFICER : It has been 45 years of nothing but love- in all forms and shapes. As an Army couple, we were in a long distance relationship even before the term could become popular. When there is love and respect in our heart, distance never matters. 45 years! Woah! I still feel like we are newly weds.
45 years ago, when my friends told me what love at first sight means, I didn’t believe him. Instead, I mocked them. I was and still am a true blue soldier. I didn’t believe in falling in love with anyone, expect for my country. Well, I realised all it takes is a moment and the right person to shatter the misconceptions we have! It was love at first sight for me! As filmy as it sounds, I saw her and there was this gushing feeling of enamour. Her grace, her attitude, her smile! That moment is still fresh in my mind as if it had happened just yesterday. Within a heartbeat, I had decided to make her my life partner. I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her and couldn’t imagine my life any other way. Lucky for me, she always wanted to marry an Army man.

Wife: When a mutual friend suggested that we both should meet, I was not really sure. I had my apprehensions. Having said that, there was something from my gut that suggested, I give this rendezvous a shot. I met him and there was no looking back. We are probably one of those couple who fell in love with each other in the first instance. I still remember how he made me feel at ease and spoke his heart out. Also, I instantly fell for him when he said he loved sky diving and parachuting.

Army officer: For an army officer, job always comes first. We had long spells of separation. Barely after 20 days of our marriage, I had to get back on duty and she went back to her parent’s place. These were the testing times. Both of us used to wait for letters and calls! It was a long wait each time! We would get restless and anxious with concern. But all the pain would vanish into thin air, the moment I would receive her letter. I would silently jump with joy! I would re-read her letters and feel the warmth through the ink.

Wife: I come from an Army background too. I was prepared for this life. I knew what being an Army officer’s wife entails. While he was away on duty, I joined his mother’s school as a teacher. I kept myself engaged. Distance only makes the heart grow fonder. Of course, it was tough after our daughter was born. His absence while she was growing up took a toll on all of us. We swam through the tides with confidence and respect for each other. Isn’t that what life is all about?

Army officer: I was waiting to retire, so that I could take her to all the places she wanted to go. We did travel widely and met new people. Now, I ensure I make up for all the lost time. A relationship needs more than just love. It requires mutual respect, compassion and acceptance.