A Love Story

Although I have always admired my parents and found their relationship to be incredibly tender, I have developed an even greater respect for them. Throughout my life, I have viewed my mother and my father primarily as parents, however, after hearing them speak candidly about their relationship, I now recognize more of their individuality and see them in a different light. From their story, I learned not only about them, but also about relationships in general. In the media, romantic relationships are highly dramatized and exaggerated. Jewelry commercials, for example, relate every aspect of a romance to jewelry, for example, "every kiss begins with Kay" and that Tiffany blue, thus conveying the idea that the price of a jewelry piece indicates the amount of love. Another grave offender is the bridal industry, made famous by the show "Say Yes to the Dress," which convinces women that the cost, fit, and style of their gowns will decide the fate of their marriage. My parents will be celebrating their 19th anniversary this year, a fact ironic considering that my father proposed without a ring and they held their reception in a small, empty house. Understanding what is truly important, my parents have always valued practicality and have taught me to see beyond the artificiality disseminated by the media.

However, music has generally told a different tale. Although many popular and rap songs promote an image of superficial romance, there has been a growing trend in music as artists choose to explore the real ups and downs of love rather than produce superficial videos. One song, in particular, "You'll Never Walk Alone," challenges the modern media portrayals of love and relationships. Although it is an older song, it is performed regularly by top singers all across the world. Its lyrics are simple, yet its message is powerful. Just like my parents have committed themselves to supporting one another in times of difficulty, working together to care for my diabetic brother, ""You'll Never Walk Alone" advocates selfless dedication and glorifies the resiliency of love. Promising their lover that they will never be abandoned to face the "storm," "dark," "wind", or "rain," alone, the speaker of the piece demonstrates that a lasting and fulfilling relationship, like that of my parents, is not based on jewelry or dresses, but rather empathy, compassion, and unwavering companionship.