Chicken Soup For This New Bride's Soul

My parents raised no bride. Nope. I was born and bred an independent person who jumped at opportunities that nurtured ambition and involved self-growth. Instead of picking up bridal magazines at bookstores as a teenager and later a twenty-something, I picked up creative publications with the hopes of one day living in the confines of my creativity. Honestly, I always pictured myself alone, working my teaching job by day and taking classes during the evening hours. Alone, I would harbor my passions and incubate the talents that kept me so preoccupied, that I loved them more than anyone.

Along the way, I admit I've encountered people- men in particular- that piqued my interest. At times, I strayed from my solo journey, curious about engaging in life as a unit. But this failed many times, as I only found myself further away from my self and what I wanted, just to be closer to my lover's expectations of life. Ultimately, these men mostly served as road blocks rather than pavers of an exciting and new path.

Until I met Jim.

That's when I discovered that a man - who was willing without my asking - embraced my love affair with the arts. He encouraged me to take more classes, read my writing aloud to him no matter what the topic (which was often about past loves- understandably uncomfortable and somewhat painful), and to continue on my creative journey. To this day, he often joins me and my laptop as we venture to cafes and the aisles of Barnes and Noble, simply to read and write (two things he does not consider a hobby for himself.)

Jim has undoubtedly become my rock. He is the chicken soup that my soul feeds on. It's no coincidence that his last name is Campbell, a last name that I, now a bride, will happily accept as my own.