I watched, fascinated by three couples waiting along with me in the airport. We are headed to Florida from Dallas. The plane has been delayed and, so, we wait.

The first couple is the youngest, in their mid sixties. They are a vibrant, bickering duo.

“Are you sure you want coffee at this hour? You know how it keeps you up,” she asks.

“Well, I’m going to need to be awake to drive home, aren’t I.”

“Okay, I’ll go get the coffee. Do you want a snack, too?”

“Sure.”

“What do you want? I’m going to Starbucks.”

“I don’t care, whatever you want to get.”

“Alright. I don’t want any complaints about what I bring back!”

They have an easy way about them. After a bit she comes back with the coffee and a slice of lemon cake. He is happy with his coffee and snack. We talk for a bit and I learn that they have been married for 42 years. Yes, they know each other well and love each other.

The second couple I had been watching are also interesting.

They look to be in their mid to late seventies. Dressed in matching outfits and identical carry-on bags, they are quite the pair. He is wearing white linen pants, white shoes and white shirt. She is in a white linen outfit too only it looks more like pajamas. In addition to the linen pants and blouse, she has chosen a fur vest which has seen better days. Truth be told, she looks ridiculous in the fur vest. It is sad really because small chunks of fur are missing here and there. The vest is very old and I’m sure is a prized possession.

This couple too has been together a long time. It is apparent that SHE is the boss  in the relationship. She has an air about her as if  she believes herself to be very important. She walks around the area as if we should all be in awe of her. Maybe she is a big fish where she lives. Who knows.

After a bit, she leans over and speaks softly to him. Off he goes and comes back with some sort of hot beverage. The woman gives him a nod of thanks and begins to sip the drink. Every so often she will get up and strut around the area. Her husband is watching her adoringly with a slight smile on his face. Love again is on display.

The last couple that had caught my eye were Super Seniors.

They must be in their late eighties or early nineties. Both are in wheelchairs and are accompanied by an aide. Another long married couple. The gentleman reaches over and pats his wife on the shoulder and she smiles back at him and pats his hand while it is on her shoulder. What a sweet endearing gesture.

At some point the woman needs to get up. The aide is trying to assist her and the husband attempts to help from his chair. He is able to hold the walker for his wife while the aide helps her stand. You can feel his concern and love as the aide and the woman head off for the restroom not far away. The relief on his face when they come back was palatable. He again helped with the walker as she sat back down in the wheelchair. Another pat on the shoulder, long enduring love, that is what I see.

Finally it is time to board. The elderly couple gets on board first and the aide it turns out isn’t flying with them. She’s just helping them get on the plane. The rest of us board.

The elderly couple is seated at the bulkhead. A good place for them. The bickering couple is seated right behind me! At last, the middle couple boards and are seated a few rows ahead of me on the other side. Of course, the man was in charge of both of their carry-ons.

The images and observations of these three couples stayed with me for days.

Three stages of marriage. . .

A younger still active couple, maybe recently retired and getting comfortable being with each other all day, every day.

The middle couple, a little less active, roles clearly defined and pleased with their relationship.

And, the elderly couple, clearly they are still in love and are happy in each other presence.

May we all be lucky enough to have any one of these relationships.

Frances Graziano 1/13/17 copywriter 2017 All Rights Reserved