The power of the ring

No, this is not about that movie based on the Tolkein book. This is about my wedding band. For the first time in more than 7 years, someone asked me to take it off yesterday. I was having a paraffin dip for my hands as part of an annual company "Wellness Day" (I also had a manicure, hot stone massage, and more), and the hot wax would have been bad for my jewelry. I really hesitated before removing it, and my engagement ring, then opted to do so and continue the treatment.

But the whole time I was soaking and after, I was really upset. Gary and Colter were going to be joining the day-long party at lunch, so I decided to wait until they arrived then ask Gary to put my rings back on me. Meanwhile, I was terrified of losing them and told everyone I knew of the trauma this had caused. (Our wedding bands were custom-made by someone who said she would never engrave a quote on the outside of a ring again, so they're truly irreplaceable.)

Interestingly, most of the people I spoke with had either lost several wedding bands and/or took them off regularly. Maybe that was a function of who I asked, but I suspect not.

When Gary arrived, he placed the rings back on my finger and all was well. But for those few hours, I had a tiny taste of what it would be like to be without the comfort of the familiar, the well-loved, the part of me that is my marriage. And then I thought, "Why didn't this happen when the cute guy who works at the bookstore was flirting with me?"

Comments

[Helene]

For our 10th thius year, David gave me both a three stone ring and band of diamonds to replace my orginal wedding band.

At first I felt funny about tucking the band away in a box (after all it was the only ring of the four that was actually blessed). But then i realized it's not the ring that makes you married, its what's in your heart.

[Kelly]

Hah! Great last line!!

We haven't had the cash for rings yet because we want something custom too. I have a feeling I'll be just as nervous and protective when we do get them. Some day. I hope.

Another wonderful slice Julie!