My first love

Two hearts, one story—how we became 'we'.

In 1955, on a warm spring evening, I met the person who would be my first love. Her name was Brenda. She sat quietly, waiting for me. She was like that, quiet and reserved. I was late, as usual, but only by 5 minutes this time. It’s because I was secretly watching her from afar. Thinking I could glean something from just watching her sit there. I was curious about how our first encounter would unfold. Blind dates can be so nerve-racking. I felt anxious, while she appeared at ease. How did she do that? I kept wondering, will she like me? Will I like her? What if she’s weird? What will we talk about?

As I approached, she greeted me with a warm, friendly smile. Our eyes locked for a split second. Immediately, I knew our relationship was cemented. I can’t quite put my finger on how I knew, but I knew.

She was beautiful, but didn’t even seem to realize it. That was not important to her. If I thought she was beautiful, it paled compared to her charm and engaging personality. She asked me questions, listened intently, making me feel like the only person in the world who mattered to her. She was one special girl, that’s for sure.

We learned we were the same age. Perhaps that’s why we hit it off. Well, that and humour. She was actually funny in that dry-sense-of-humour way. And I discovered she would occasionally burst into big belly laughs too. Ya gotta love a girl who can belly laugh. And sometimes she was even funny without knowing she was funny. It was like she was unintentionally funny, which was hilarious, in fact. Whereas, I think I’m funny all the time and always laugh at my funniness.

We also both enjoyed stories. I enjoyed telling them and she enjoyed listening and often laughing. Music to my ears. I fashioned myself as a superb storyteller. But I don’t think she would say the same because sometimes she would fall asleep midway through my story. What are you doing? I was stunned when she first did it. But I kept the story alive. I’d sit up all night watching her sleep, just waiting for her to open her eyes so I could continue my story. It would make her laugh. How could you possibly remember where you left off? Well, it’s easy. I’m lying in wait for you to open your damned eyes. My story is right on the tip of my tongue, ready to be unleashed. For your enjoyment, of course.

Our spring-love blossomed into the warm summer months. Our living arrangements were small, and we were finding it challenging to keep cool. Tempers were flaring a bit, and we were both getting edgy with each other. I found her to be a bit too opinionated, and she thought I was short-tempered. We fought for the first time since we’d met. Both of us privately considered leaving the relationship, but what we did instead surprised us. We apologized to each other. Well, that was different.

The dog days of summer moved into autumn with the crisp, cool air invigorating us. We spent a lot of time talking, laughing, and even arguing. No subject was off limits. We were compromising daily for each other without even realizing we were doing it. We were always considering each other. She was caring, compassionate and had a strong sense of responsibility. She always had my best interests at heart.

While I was responsible, it wasn’t to the same degree. I was more spontaneous and playful, which she really enjoyed. It’s true, opposites attract.

She remained a bit of a mystery to me. I encouraged her to open up, even though deep feelings scared her. I think she was afraid of getting hurt. It took time, but she eventually learned to trust that I would never deliberately hurt her. Our love and commitment to one another continued to grow. We became this team. An indomitable team, in fact.

I was no longer just ME. Brenda, and I were now a WE.

We were now ready to make a lifelong commitment to one another. She was my best friend, my confidante. Someone I trusted implicitly. We would always be there for each other. Always!

It was time to meet the parents. Christmas was just weeks away. We had a lot to do. Even though we were both nervous, we were also excited. We decided that Christmas Eve would be the perfect day. Everyone feels the joy of Christmas and we wanted to join in the festivities. It was going to be magical.

Brenda would go in first.

I gave her a few minutes alone with them before entering. It was a wonderful decision. Because what I witnessed was a sight to behold. Tears of joy, laughter, kisses. And lots of love!

As I entered, Brenda looked over and gave me a wink. The coast is clear, is what she was telling me. No need to be afraid. They will love you too, as much as they love me. And it was just that. Pure, unadulterated love! Bliss!

We were finally home after 9 long, delightful months! Mom and Dad were so happy to meet their twin girls, Brenda and Debbie.