July 1 is an affair to remember in my life.

Do you remember the movie An Affair to Remember? Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr planned to meet at the top of the Empire State Building on July 1 to begin a lifetime together. Tragically, she stepped off the curb and was struck by a car, leading to heartbreaking misunderstandings that delayed their happy ending. Yet their love could not be destroyed by any misunderstanding. Eventually, love won. That is the power of love.

Ernest Holmes wrote, “Love is a Cosmic Force whose sweep is irresistible.” I live by that quote whenever I think there is some condition or circumstance that is impossible to overcome. Love is a Cosmic Force, and nothing can dim its Light from being expressed when we recognize it and awaken it within ourselves.

July 1 is Patrick Feren’s and my affair to remember because it is the day we chose to commit our lives to one another. We embraced that Cosmic Force together, and here we are 25 years later.

People often ask what the secret is to a lasting marriage. I don’t think there is one formula. We’ve had our share of ups and downs, disappointments and celebrations, questions and discoveries. But if there is one practice that has sustained us, it is this: we have each remained willing to change. On our wedding day 25 years ago, that was our vow – “Promise me you’ll change.”

We didn’t necessarily commit to changing together. We each committed to our own growth. Yet because of that commitment—because we each chose spiritual, emotional, and mental growth—our relationship has continued to deepen and expand in ways neither of us could have imagined. Love doesn’t ask us to remain who we were. Love asks us to become more of who we truly are.

On this July 1, 2026, I celebrate the deep and remarkable man who chose to be my husband. I cherish him for all that he is, and I am committed to always allowing him the freedom to grow and change. I celebrate myself as well, and I remain committed to continuing my own journey of growth.

What comes next for us will be determined by our willingness to keep exploring the depths of our own souls and to offer that treasure to one another freely, with no strings attached.

I love you, Patrick Feren. I honor you, your beautiful spirit, and your deep and abiding commitment to self-love. Your love is a gift, and I treasure it always.

Happy 25th Anniversary!

Here’s to the next chapter,
Rita