I don't know how a man can be so truly blessed or lucky on this Earth to have found what I have found in my wife, Loretta Wilson.

These past 6 and 3/4 years have been the greatest of both my joys and my sorrows. It has been the most time I've ever spent learning about life as well as the most time I've ever spent being foolish and wasteful. I have never felt more proud, nor have I felt so broken. I have never felt so at peace, or nearly so enraged. Never have I been so daring, or so full of fear. Never have I felt as unstoppable, or as downtrodden. Never have I felt so hopeful, or so full of despair.

Never have I felt so alive. Or so grateful.

Life before Loretta was hardly living at all. All the things I enjoy and respect about myself have been carefully and lovingly cultivated by the outstanding patience and grace shown to me by my wife. She has enjoyed and complimented me at my best as well as forgiven and accepted me at my worst. She is my best friend and most trusted companion. When she is near, I am still inside, and my world becomes clear. When she is away, I hurt for her prescence, and am filled with grief. In great times, we celebrate each other, and in the troublesome times, we take great care to cling together; a united front.

She is my treasure on this Earth. Although I can become distracted with my ambitions in this game of life, I return to the greatest truth that with her by my side, I have already won. Everything I endeavor to do is only to further the enjoyment and wonder I feel in our partnership. If I become an excellent teacher, it is only because she has shown me the patient to teach. If I become an excellent mentor, it is only because she has shown me the compassion to feel. If I become an excellent man, it is only because she has inspired me to do so.

I love you Loretta. I love you for what you have so selflessly given to this undeserving man, and I love you for how you live and what you aspire to be. I find myself constantly striving to find better and more creative ways to meet your needs, and take great delight in each and every beautiful smile that crosses your face because of something I've done. You are my everything.

Come home to me soon.