When you fall in love, it is a temporary madness. It erupts like an earthquake, and then it subsides. And when it subsides, you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your branches have become so far entwined together that it is inconceivable that you should ever part. For me that would be end of my world and inconceivable.

For almost ten years I have held the one I love, through ups and downs, laughter and tears, three children and being deprived of you for seven months whilst at the academy while you were home with our two small children. You have stood beside me and held my hand.

Our love is so strong I believe we can do anything, so today I commit to give myself to you in marriage, from this day I am bound to you and will forsake all others. You have taught me what it is to truly love someone more than myself. I commit to you that I will give my life to you and I promise to always protect your life with mine. I will celebrate with you in times of great happiness and I will not just stand by you but carry you during times of life’s greatest sorrows.

I will cherish your health, but one day when it fades I will be with you in any sickness or weakness you face, from now until the day I die.

I waited my entire life to find you; you are the desire of my soul, not only have you given me three beautiful children that share with you the joy of my life, you are my best friend and have given me ten years of being whole. Our branches are far to entwined and I vow to you today that I will never give up on our love.

What lies behind us, and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.