'Milestones' offers true look at marriage

The Milestones section of Sunday's Gazette (June 5) highlighting so many long-term marriages was a welcome contrast to the front-page article concerning the decline in traditional marriages in Iowa. It is true that everyone has the freedom to live with someone and bypass marriage as an option. However, one missing ingredient is that there is no true commitment or security in this arrangement - one can leave at any time.

Concerning the cost of a wedding, it does not have to be lavish or overly expensive. We have been to some lovely weddings that were simply done and it was good to know that there was not a financial burden for the couple or their parents.

There's something to be said for a man and woman to stand before God, family and friends and commit themselves to one another in marriage “for better or for worse.” Of course, it takes work and sacrifice (anything truly worthwhile does), but it's so worth it! As my husband and I celebrate our 53rd wedding anniversary on Flag Day, one of our joys is that all four of our daughters are also happily married.

Coral Dye

Cedar Rapids