Dear Reader,

As this book goes to press, my parents are celebrating their forty-eighth anniversary. What an accomplishment in a world where half of marriages end in divorce. And what a shining example of the enduring power of love! Through good times and bad, in sickness and in health, they have faced life together, always knowing that their love would see them through.

In comparison to their forty-eight-year union, my marriage is a mere child at twelve years. But I already have a sense of how tough it can be to keep that “for better, for worse” vow. So many things take a toll on marriage. Demanding careers that leave couples little time—or energy—for each other. Unexpected disappointments that change the direction of your life together. Well-laid plans that go awry. Hurts that only time and a change of heart can heal.

Fortunately, few marriages have to overcome the kind of tragedy that Jess and Scott face in Never Say Goodbye. Instead, most are simply worn down by the petty annoyances of daily life. And in a world of “I-have-to-take-care-of-myself-first” attitudes and values that change from situation to situation, there is little to encourage the stick-to-it-iveness that is the glue of marriage. It’s easier to just give up when trials and tribulations replace romance and roses.

But what a loss that is. Because it’s the enduring power of love that gives marriage its depth and dimension. For there is incredible peace and joy in knowing that whatever happens, you’ll still be together. And that your love will burn with an unquenchable flame that is steady and sure and strong all the days of your life. Just as my parents’ has for nearly half a century.

Happy anniversary, Mom and Dad. I love you. Always.