February, our shortest month, houses Valentine’s Day and World Day of Social Justice. However, I want to take this opportunity and attempt to share a more personal story with love in mind. 19 years ago, I ended a not-so-exciting-date early and met friends at the Skylark Lounge. I was motivated by the fact that the hilarious Sam would be joining us. Long story short, I asked him out on a date, he said yes and that night walked me to my car and kissed me on the cheek. And this is going to sound ridiculous, but at that moment, I knew that this was THE person for me. The very next night he rode his bike two miles in a snow storm to get to his car that was parked across town, to drive to the party where I happened to be. I’m not sure if it was the magic of that gesture, but long story
short, we’ve been together ever since. Together we have made a crazy circus of a life with three kids, a dog, a cat, a snake, a fish, and I would not change a single thing. I get to work with Sam every single day and for this I’m thankful. It’s a privilege and a gift to get to spend time with your best friend and a daily reminder that love wins. Cheesy as it may sound, and whatever your definition of love looks like, make it a priority. Be it with your children, your parents, your neighbors, your community and especially yourself. Love wins. So there you have it, a small glimpse into our story. Sam, forgive me for putting this out in front of everyone.
Your neighbor Shaleen DeStefano