The first time I witnessed real love, I ran scared…literally. My only experiences involving “love” had been with Alan and Henry. Any type of touching or kissing triggered fear.

Marie was a professor at some fancy University and Mike was a truck driver. They had a nice home. Peaceful. No one ever yelled or fought. Even when they argued, they were still respectful to each other. I loved being there and taking in the happiness that existed in that home.

Mike was my uncle through marriage, but he treated me like one of his own. He would brag about me to his friends, he never forgot my birthday, and he always told me he loved me. He was a hugger. Those hugs were never awkward.  There was no fear associated with those and that was a first. He was the closest thing to a father I’ve ever had.

Mike & Marie let me tag along to run errands one day. As we walked into the store, Mike reached for Marie’s hand, held it and leaned in for a kiss. That scared me. I didn’t understand why they were doing that in public and I didn’t know what the appropriate reaction was in that situation. So I ran. It’s funny now but I can still remember the panic I felt. I ran as fast as I could and ended up hiding in an isle somewhere. When I think back at that, it makes me sad for the little girl I used to be. I was so broken that I didn’t even understand real love.

When Mike found me, he looked concerned. “Where did you go? We’ve been looking for you.” I didn’t know what to say. By the time they’d found me I had realized that my reaction was not normal. It was tough explaining that to them at that time. I didn’t even have the words for that.

Mike was a perfect example of what a husband should be. He loved his wife, he was a great father, a hard worker and just an overall decent human being. Mike and my husband are very similar. I guess I owe my happy marriage to Mike. They say you fall in love with someone who reminds you of your parents. My father was a deadbeat but Mike was who raised me. I’m grateful everyday for being lucky enough to be loved by both of them.