Forty years ago today, I asked this beautiful woman to be my Valentine, and she said yes. A few months later, I asked her to marry me and she said yes once again—making me the luckiest and happiest man in the world! 

Four decades later, I love her more than ever. She is my friend and counselor, my steady support, my inspiration and my love. 

Ash Wednesday reminds us that in the last decades of our life, many physical things will age, weaken and ultimately fail. But I know without any doubt that our love will grow stronger and ultimately prevail. 

Love is stronger than death, and hope springs eternal. 

Happy Valentine’s Day, Sharon. I love you—forever.