50 Years Ago Today

Here is the story of two lives woven together 50 years ago today.
He came from Spain, she came from El Salvador
Both came with dreams for something so very much more.

Childhood pain, fathers that faded away
They began something special 50 years ago today.

As a young boy, he knew hunger, sorrow and war
But the worst, he always told me, was watching family become no more.
With glimmered hope fanned by his mother, some priests and soldiers brave
He heard of a place called America, a dream his soul began to crave

As a little girl she knew rejection and strife
Her family split much too early in her young life.
Her courageous mother fighting for a new start
Brought her to America giving new hope to this girl’s fragile little heart.

Two different backgrounds although so much the same,
Firm resolve was forged within them, thanks to the furnace of childhood pain.
They met, fell in love, and joined together 50 years ago today.

I wonder if they knew what they had started 50 years ago today.

Children, obligations, hard work and stress
They stuck together, honored vows, and achieved this success
Now four children, ten grandchildren, and many friends all stand here to say,
Isn’t it amazing what you started 50 years ago today!

And in case it isn’t obvious or seems curious to any,
In this age where enduring commitment is rare for so many,

That’s fifty years of bad days as well as the good,
That’s fifty years of making choices that not everyone could.

That’s fifty years of shared memories, joy and concern,
Fifty years of sacrificing and always holding firm
To the conviction that marriage and family must endure
Because so much and so many depend on this cure.

Fifty years as an example for generations to come,
Who will remember them forever as forefathers to a great legacy of love.

Written by Michael Ambrosio, also known as Kenneth Michael San Vicente,
in honor of his parents, Ramon and Beth San Vicente.
Delivered and read at their 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration
October 16th, 2004