Let me state the obvious, I have had quite a full life with many exciting and sometimes toxic experiences...but I was always single. When I came across the world here... before covid was even a thought, I didn't do it to find a wife, I did it to find a new adventure because I was bored in Toronto.
Coming here has been the challenge that ultimately worked out. From the time I met my wife, I found her to be honest and pure, I don't think she has lied more than a handful or times in her entire life, its just not part of her DNA. She accompanied me on my first live TV thing I was doing here to sell a product, it was hardly art, but because it was live to many locals, I was super nervous. I looked over and in the wings watching was this new friend of mine. From that point on I felt like maybe I needed to explore a relationship with this sweet girl. She was 40 and I was 55, so I had no idea if this would be something that would be feasible here in the East.
However, it just grew to this beautiful friendship and although her parents were Taiwanese Muslims and very strict with her, somehow we have managed to tie the knot. It feels great, and I hope I can remain strong and consistent and kind for her as I pass into my later years.
We went on a honeymoon in the south of the country to 5 different cities and it was special and raw.
We are back in the big city and will be looking for a new apartment in the next month.
How does it feel to be married? It feels natural, it feels great. A natural extension of our love. Will and can we have a child? It's definitely possible. I've always felt an enormous sadness that I wasn't able to get my life together 25 years ago and have a family of my own. Age is just a number, let's hope so.
We were not able to travel to Canada to have the wedding and a party with my family as planned because of the virus, but as my aunt said to me "that virus was the only thing that could have kept me away" from sharing the moment with my wonderful family.
What now? Real life with a partner. We are a team and we make a very good one. My interests of photography and meditation feed my life these days and help me with all the stuff that usually challenges me in a foreign country.
To the women who have shared my life at some point in the past I feel a great gratitude. They have helped me grow as a man, and made it possible for me to be softer, than my usual nature allows.
Somebody said to me today that Taurus guys feel like everybody that comes into their lives are almost resembling employees on a payroll, in other words, we are self absorbed. I think there is some truth to this. I think I'll try to be more empathetic and a good listener, but I will keep my eyes open to this real fault lurking in the wings.
Thanks to my good friends as well that have encouraged me on my 8 year journey of health and sobriety. Look what can happen when you put yourself in the right frame of mind, all sorts of good luck can come your way.
If you know me then you know that I have produced many photos of this Honeymoon trip and of my relationship in general on my social media. I'd like to take a little breather from that and just be in the moment for a while, but thanks for indulging me.
Rick
