“Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.” – Maya Angelou
Valentine’s Day is a day for us all to stop and celebrate love no matter where we find it. This year at DDA we wanted to highlight the long-lasting love that developed within our own community and to spread the message that everyone wants the same thing – to love and be loved.
Doug and Tracy have been together for an incredible 31 years. A few days before Valentine’s Day, we sat down with them to find out how they keep it going after all this time (and maybe get some helpful hints!). As the interview began, the pair sat happily on the couch, Doug’s arm draped across Tracy’s shoulders.
Like many successful relationships, Doug and Tracy’s time together began with an introduction.
“Before I met Tracy I met a lady called Tanya, she got Tracy and me together,” says Doug.
“I’m in the Joy Fellowship church choir,” adds Tracy. “And that’s where we met.”
The pair goes to church every Sunday together and finds a common interest in the activities there. Another activity they like to do together is Bollywood Dancing joining other DDA clients for practices and performances at Bell Centre for the Performing Arts. The pair can’t spend as much time together right now as Tracy needs eye surgery, but afterward, they hope to get back into their regular dating schedule, seeing each other two or three times a week.
“I love her very much and we chat on the phone a lot. Before church, we like to go out to a restaurant a lot,” adds Doug.
When it really comes down to it, however, 31 years is a long time for a relationship. They both have an idea why they’ve lasted so long.
“He’s a real gentleman. He kind and sweet and a real nice guy. He helps me across the street,” asserts Tracy. “I love him and I like being around him all the time.”
Doug’s secret to longevity is a subtle reminder that anyone can learn from.
“For me, it’s trust and honesty.”
Doug and Tracy would like to wish everyone Happy Valentine’s Day!
