Anniversary Vows
You cannot possess me for I belong to myself.
But while we both wish it, I give you that which is mine to give.
I cannot posses you, for you are unto yourself.
But if you allow, it is my great honor to walk with you and live.
Step in step, stride in stride.
Hand in hand, side by side.
I would not try to possess you, your greatness is your own.
But while you wish it, I’ll gladly accept that which you give.
You would not try to possess me, you know I’m yours alone.
And as I always allow, please stay with me while we live.
You cannot command me, for I am a free person.
But I shall serve you in those ways you require,
I will stay with you through all things,
Hell and high water, harsh gales, flood, or fire.
I would not command you, for you are a free being
But I would ask you let me serve til you tire.
Allow me to prepare your rest after your day
A place to sit, a warm meal over the fire,
And the honeycomb will taste sweeter coming from my hand.
I pledge to you that yours will be the name I cry aloud in the night,
And the eyes into which I smile in the morning.
I pledge to you that I will seek only you for twilight,
And hold only your hand through mourning.
I pledge to you the first bite of my meat
and the first drink from my cup.
I pledge to you to equally treat
And to always lift you up.
I pledge to you my living and my dying, each equally in your care.
I pledge to you the only crying
Will be a burden that we share.
I shall be a shield for your back and you for mine.
I will protect you with the strength I have for this time.
I shall guard you, as I do my own heart,
For the survivalist in me cannot tell them apart.
I shall not slander you, nor you me.
I shall only speak of your profound beauty.
I shall honor you above all others,
and when we quarrel, remember we are lovers.
we shall do so in private and tell no strangers our grievances.
I will hold no grudges, demand no evenness.
This is my wedding vow to you
This is the marriage of equals.
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