June 17, 2001

Frustrations Subside

So I went down on Friday with some trepidation to Gillinsonville, South Carolina, to meet Christine and Martin Terry, a couple who have been married for more than 77 years.

Suffice it to say that most (not all) of my frustrations melted away when I met these two incredible people.

When a wiry 105-year-old man came walking out with the help of only a worn broom handle-turned walking stick, I had to smile. This man, who has seen years in three centuries, who has been married longer than many people get to live, was coming out to talk with us.

The stories he left us with, the stories his wife left us with, were priceless, and I was grateful to have recorded them.

So we drove away smiling having met such a wonderful couple. They sure don't make 'em like they used to.

- Rich