BY Bode Durojaiye
In a fast-paced world where daily routines, career pressures, and family obligations constantly compete for attention, the formal celebration of a wedding anniversary serves as a crucial mechanism for marital survival and growth.
A wedding anniversary represents far more than marking another year of marriage; it celebrates the evolution of love, the strengthening of bonds, and the beautiful journey shared between two souls. These milestone celebrations offer precious opportunities to honour both cultural heritage and personal growth.
For 21 years, both Reverend Dr. Kolade Oladele , the Personal Assistant to the Alaafin and the Titan of Yorubaland and his better half are giving gratitudes to the Almighty God for their wedding , which to them is a personal ritual that reinforces their shared narrative.
It reminds them why they chose each other in the first place, surviving through tough years—health scares, and financial stress It proves that their partnership works under pressure, designing the future, and providing a natural, recurring calendar date to talk about upcoming dreams, goals, and changes for the years ahead.
It demonstrates that the marriage exists independently of, and prior to, the roles of mother and father. Prioritizing the anniversary teaches children what a committed, respectful, and celebratory adult relationship looks like, providing them with an emotional blueprint for their own futures.
Both couples do not view it as an obligation or a commercial holiday driven by gift, but a preventative maintenance tool for the heart, an annual renewal of an emotional contract, ensuring that as the world changes, the two people who made a promise to each other remain firmly on the same team.
They are also of the conviction that gratitude is a vital attitude in marriage, and a positive indicator that a husband and wife find their relationship satisfying.
What is more, not all women are wife materials, as there are unique characteristics that make a lady to qualify as a loving wife.
But Mrs Kolade is one of those few women who are wife materials and possess unique characteristics that qualify them as a caring, loving and submissive wives to their husbands. Her family is her priority. She is always the source of inspiration to both her husband, and the children.
The pretty- looking Mrs Kolade supports her husband by encouraging him. She respects her husband, because she knows that every man needs to be admired and respected, since all men interpret respect as love in any relationship, communication is critical. And marriage is no exception. Mrs Kolade allows open communication in her marriage. This means that she tells her handsome husband what she thinks or feels and what she expects of him.
She talks tto her husband – ask, say, and discuss. She avoids the silent treatment, which can make things worse. She doesn’t leave her husband guessing about what he wants. Rather, she figures out what her husband really wants while being honest to him , and then communicate that to him.
Mrs Kolade is of the conviction that the best marriage is the one where the couple is each other’s best friend. The love between Rev. Dr. Kolade and his better half is deep, strong and genuine.
Consequently, in his thought provoking and heart warming chat with me, Rev. Dr. Kolade said, “” If you ever forget how amazing you are, I will always be here to remind you. . Your continuous positive vibe is inspiring, remain steadfast. You are one of the most optimistic people I know, continue to reach for success.
“Though you have blinded me with your love, I really don’t mind because I can see a beautiful future with you. People watch romantic movies that show true love, others read stories or poems about it; but as for me, I only need to look at you to know I have it in my life. Undeniable is my connection with you, unbelievable is how much I love you, and unbreakable is the bond that we have formed with each other. You have turned me from a boy into a man. I am now content, happy and I feel invincible with you by my side. Happy wedding anniversary my joy””.
In her response, the elated Mrs Kolade said, “” words are not enough to describe you my love, handsome and caring husband. You are wonderful, amazing, unique, and incomparable. I could go on forever. You are the most awesome, wonderful, outrageously funny, courageous, habdsome and great hubby you are.
“” Whenever I’m having a bad day, I know that I can count on your love and affection to cheer me up. You make me feel special every day. My sweetheart, You are the most kind-hearted and thoughtful husband alive. Loving you is always easy. You have shown me what it means to have the perfect marriage. Life is so precious and should be treasured. I treasure every moment with you and I’m so grateful to you Darling.
“” The sun won’t shine if I am not with you. The days are long when you’re not close to me. I am hopeless and scared when I don’t feel your touch. You are my husband I will always love. I love the way you love me. Through the good and bad times, you continue to be by my side. I couldn’t have asked for a better husband””.
Lastly, Mrs Kolade has this to say to her loving husband, “” I am so appreciative for all of the blessings in my life. I have friends, family, health, and so on., but the one blessing I am forever grateful for is knowing and loving you. You are a perfect gift from God””.
