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06th Jan 2007

It was a simple, rather quiet affair, no big splash,
no thousands of guests and catered dinner. There
wasn't a polka band or DJ spinning the top forty.

The next day there were no headlines on the front
page of the papers, in fact only a small handful
of people actually were aware of the event.

But on that day, December 05, 1952, a monumental
undertaking began. The odds were against this couple to
start. It was exceedingly rare that a partnership
of this type was to last for 50 years.

It wasn't always easy. Sometimes things were hard
going, in fact downright difficult. Money was tight
to start with.

Obstacles came and obstacles were faced and dealt with.

But these two folks had something going for them that
made all the difference. They had a determination
that no matter what, they were going to succeed.

They simply made up their minds to do whatever it
took to make their marriage a success.

50 years later this couple is celebrating all those
years of hard work and dedication. All the struggles
they went through, now seem only a part of what has
continually made them stronger throughout the years.

Had their relationship never been "tested" perhaps
they would not have learned the valuable lessons
that enabled them to be in a elite class of folks who
reach that golden wedding anniversary.

Had they given up when things got a little rough and
the waters became choppy, as so many choose to do now
a days, then it would have proved the struggles to
be bigger than they were.

But they didn't give up. That determination to see things
through to the end, no matter what the difficulty, has
given them the right and privelege to say without a doubt,
they truly are a success in life.

If there's one outstanding quality my mom and dad have
taught me, by example, it is once you are determined to
do something worthwhile, never give in and never give up.

So very few couples can enjoy having a 50th wedding
anniversary.

My mom and dad are an inspiration to their children,
their community, and I hope dear reader today to you.

Because as we all know, that once we decide to do
something worthwhile in our lives, it doesn't always
come easy. We all face numerous road blocks and hardships
and struggles.

There are times when it would be a whole lot easier
to just "throw in the towel" and give up on our dreams.
There are times when we just don't "feel" like doing
what it takes to accomplish that next step on our journey.


But for those of us who refuse to give in, the rewards
far outweigh the prices we have to pay.

Running a business is not much different than having
a successful marriage. They both take hard work,
dedication, a vision for the future and a never say die attitude.

They both take a total commitment.


I know things aren't always easy in your own business.
But I challenge you today to learn a lesson from my
mom and dad.

Let their success story be an inspiration to you when
things get a bit rough and you may feel like giving in.

You are bigger than the difficulties. I know you have
that ability within you.

Thank you Bill and Dorothy Cole for being who you are
and for what you have taught me.

Your son,
Dave

Content kindly supplied by: Dave