LOVING BY ENDURING, ENDURING BY LOVING John and Dorothy’s marriage was blessed in church. On their wedding day, as the bridal party neared the church, a sudden wild summer storm broke out. Out of nowhere, a furious wind tore Dorothy’s bridal veil away, sending it spiraling high into the sky, only to drop, limp, into a muddy puddle. Guests could only gasp in shock as the storm stopped as suddenly as it began. John dashed after the veil, but it was too late. The snow-white veil now lay soiled in a black puddle. Flustered, Dorothy shouted to her fiancé: “John, leave it! I won’t wear it now!” The old ladies sitting near the church bent together and whispered, “A rough start means a stormy marriage…” Dorothy’s friends bought her an artificial white flower and pinned it into her hair. There was no time to look for a new veil. After all, you can’t be late to your own church wedding! So the new bride and groom stood before the altar, holding candles and exchanging sacred vows—to God. But before the church ceremony, they’d already signed the registry and celebrated with a beautiful wedding—for appearances. Three years later, they had two children: Sophie and Arthur. Family life was peaceful and happy. …But ten years after the wedding, a young woman knocked on John and Dorothy’s door. Dorothy always welcomed guests warmly, whether invited or unexpected—feeding them, pouring tea, and offering friendly conversation. But this visitor was different. She came when John was out. With a woman’s instinct, Dorothy sized up the stranger: well-dressed, friendly, strikingly beautiful, and so young. “Hello, Dorothy. I’m Millie. I’m your husband’s future wife,” the stranger said. “How interesting!” Dorothy was taken aback. “And how long has John been engaged to you?” Dorothy asked, entering into the odd conversation. “A while now. But I can’t wait much longer—John and I are having a baby,” Millie replied, unashamed. “Hm… Textbook story! Wife, mistress, illegitimate child…” “Miss, you do realise John and I are married—blessed in church? We have children.” Dorothy tried to reason with her. “I know. But we’re in love—forever! You can get an annulment; after all, your husband hasn’t been faithful. I looked into it.” “Look, Miss!” Dorothy was getting annoyed. “Don’t meddle in another woman’s family. We’ll deal with our love and loyalty.” The girl shrugged and left. Dorothy slammed the door in anger. “She’s so sure of herself! Well, you’re not getting John!” Dorothy couldn’t help but recall how John’s attentiveness had faded lately: working late, sudden business trips, outlandish new hobbies. Every woman can sense another’s presence—a tension in the air, something unsaid… But Dorothy pushed the dark thoughts aside. Maybe she’d imagined it; maybe John was blameless. That evening, after dinner, Dorothy finally broached the difficult subject: “John, are you in love?” she asked directly. He hesitated, “I am.” “Your…woman came by today. Is this serious?” Dorothy’s voice trembled. “I’m a scoundrel! I can’t live without Millie. I tried to end it… I just can’t. Please let me go, Dorothy!” “You’re free…” Dorothy knew appeals to conscience or the children were pointless. Life would decide. And so, John left for his new love. Dorothy turned to the vicar for counsel. After listening kindly, he said, “My child, love bears long, and never fails! You have every right to an annulment—John has strayed. Or you can forgive, pray, and wait. The Lord works in mysterious ways…” Two months later, Dorothy found herself expecting a child—John’s child. Joy blossomed: perhaps it was a sign—maybe John would rethink and return. That hope sustained her through the pregnancy. A healthy baby boy was born. Dorothy’s mother suggested calling him Jack—after all, Jack is the English for John. “Maybe your John will come back—stranger things have happened…” Fortunately, Dorothy’s mother helped in every way—watching the children, feeding them, teaching them sense and kindness. John didn’t forget Sophie and Arthur: he sent gifts, took them to the seaside, left money in envelopes. Dorothy forbade the children to mention little Jack to their dad. Naturally, Sophie spilled the secret during a visit. John assumed Dorothy had found someone new—and felt a pang of jealousy at the memory of their happy past. He never imagined Jack could be his own son. …Meanwhile, John’s new wife, Millie, had a difficult pregnancy. John ran about finding fruit and odd cravings—chalk, pickles… But tragedy struck: Millie gave birth to a stillborn girl. Then a second pregnancy ended in miscarriage. Devastated, Millie wanted a break from motherhood, but fate had other plans… During this time, Dorothy’s old university friend, Victor, began visiting. He’d had eyes for Dorothy back then, but she’d never considered him for a husband—too dutiful, too serious, too attached to his mother, and lacking a sense of humour—though other girls were drawn to him. After meeting John, Dorothy had given Victor the brush-off, but it turned out he’d only quietly stepped away. One rainy autumn day, Dorothy met Victor on the bus. “Mind if I sit here?” he asked. “Of course,” Dorothy replied, barely looking up. He was persistent: “Everything alright, miss?” When he called her by name—“Dorothy, hello! Why so sad?”—she finally looked. “Victor? Goodness, it’s been ages! Where have you been?” They laughed together, and she invited him round. Over wine and fruit, Dorothy poured her heart out. Victor listened, nodded, and comforted her. At the end, she kissed him—on the cheek, just for understanding. Victor left, quietly encouraged. He’d never married himself, it turned out. Victor began visiting Dorothy’s home, bringing gifts for the children, flowers for her. But Dorothy was clear: “You’re welcome here, but I’m waiting for my husband. There will be no impropriety.” Victor accepted even this, preferring to be ‘brother’ to Dorothy and ‘uncle’ to the children, rather than be alone. Meanwhile, Millie finally gave birth to a healthy girl, blessings at last. She and John named her Grace—a name meaning ‘blessed’. Millie devoted herself to motherhood and often thought back to her talk with Dorothy: “Stolen happiness brings no joy—only pain.” Only now did she truly realise the sorrow she’d caused. She longed to throw herself at Dorothy’s feet and beg forgiveness. John doted on their daughter Grace—spoiling her with toys, cradling her at night, cherishing bath time. Years passed; the children grew older, and the adults matured too. Then, tragedy struck—Millie fell gravely ill at just thirty. Hospitals, doctors, treatments—John did everything for her. When the end approached, Millie asked, “Please, John, take me to see your first wife—Dorothy.” John was surprised but agreed. Dorothy already knew Millie was ill—her daughter, Sophie, still visited John and had told her. So, when John called, Dorothy consented readily. Carrying frail Millie inside, John laid her carefully on the bed. The family gathered, waiting, as Dorothy sat by her side. “Forgive me, Dorothy, if you can. God’s justice has caught up with me. Please, promise me you’ll raise Grace—she’ll have no one but you, John, and your family,” Millie pleaded through tears. Holding her hand, Dorothy said gently, “Millie, we punish ourselves—not God! I forgave you long ago! Don’t worry about Grace, she will never be left alone. Stay here with us, both you and John, until you’re stronger. There’s room for everyone in this house! I promise—you’ll get better! With God, anything is possible. Don’t lose hope.” The house became like something from a fairy tale—there was shelter and care for all. Everyone helped look after Millie, but it was Victor who proved the most devoted—always by her side, comforting her. In time, he realised he’d fallen in love with her, just as he adored little Grace. Millie began to fight for her life; she clung to hope, and slowly, surely, improved. Six months of struggle passed. Gradually, Millie could walk in the garden and bask in the sunlight. Life returned by degrees… Millie pondered Victor. She still loved John, but another woman’s husband is off-limits—she’d learnt that lesson well. But Victor was kind, gentle, and cared for her child as his own. Such families too can flourish, where one’s love is enough for both. She would try to let Victor’s love grow. Recovery was slow, but real. Then, finally, during a family meal, Millie spoke: “Dorothy, John, Grace and I—and Victor—are leaving. Thank you for your kindness. I may never meet such wonderful people again. Bless you all from the bottom of my heart!” John and Dorothy exchanged glances. They’d seen the bond growing between Millie and Victor—LOVE. Some time before, John had shared with Dorothy: “No matter what happens between you and Millie, I want—I need—to be with you. Your generosity knows no bounds. Will you take me back? We must raise our three children together. I’ll beg at your feet for forgiveness!” “What do you think, John? Of course I will! I ought to be the one asking your forgiveness. Life teaches us all…” Dorothy kissed her once-wayward husband. “And Grace?” Dorothy pressed. “Her happiness matters too.” “Grace is my daughter. She will never suffer for my mistakes. My door will always be open to her,” John vowed. Victor, Millie, and Grace prepared to leave. At the door, Millie turned to John: “Love Dorothy. More than life—love her! Never hurt her. I’ll always remember you, John.” “Be happy, Millie,” John replied…

TO LOVE ENDURINGLY, TO ENDURE LOVING

James and Emilys marriage was sealed in the old stone church on the edge of York. On the day of their wedlock, as the wedding procession approached St. Johns, an unexpected summer storm erupted. Gusts swept in out of nowhere, whipping Emilys silk veil clear off her head. It soared high like a white dove, spun in the stormy air, then fluttered down into a muddy puddle right in front of all the guests. There was a collective gasp. The winds died as abruptly as theyd arrived. James dashed after the veil, but he couldnt rescue it in time.

There it layher brilliant white veil, sullied in a black pool. Emily, flustered, called out, James, leave it! I shant wear that veil now!

The elderly ladies who were always perched outside St. Johns began their whispering and tutting, predicting a turbulent life for the young couple.

In a rush, an artificial flower was bought from a corner shop and fastened into Emilys hair. There was no time to find another veilthe wedding couldnt wait. At the threshold of the church, the newlyweds stood before the altar holding their marriage candles, making their vows to each other under Gods eye. Yet before the sacred ceremony, theyd already signed the register and celebrated with family and friends in a grand old hall. That was for the people; this, for the divine.

Three years later came two children: Sophie, their daughter, and Thomas, their son. Life settled into its own rhythmpeaceful, uncomplicated, happy.

Yet ten years after their wedding, a knock sounded at their door.

Emily had always welcomed guests, announced or not. Everyone was met warmly, offered a pot of tea, and treated to her generous table and gentle conversation. But this visitor would change everything. She arrived while James was away.

Emily could see the girl immediately had gracetall, strikingly beautiful, with a kind smile and youth radiating from her.

Hello, Emily. Im Lily. I am to be… your husbands future wife, the stranger introduced herself, calm as anything.

How curious! was all Emily could muster, dumbfounded.

Has James been courting you long? Emily managed, keeping the chill from her voice.

A long while, Lily replied, but I cant wait any longer. James and I are having a baby.

Ah, the classic! Emily remarked, her voice brittle. Wife, mistress, illegitimate child… Tell me, Lily, do you know that James and I are joined in marriage for life? We have children, too.

I know, but James and Ithis is love! Everlasting. You can annul things, you know. Hes been unfaithful, I checked, so youd be allowed to, Lily offered, a little too keen for Emily’s liking.

Look, love, Id advise you to keep away from other peoples families! Well sort out faithfulness and love ourselves, thank you. Goodbye, Emily said, her patience thinning.

With a polite shrughaving delivered her messageLily left quickly.

Emily slammed the door behind her, fuming. Well, youve learnt your piece…thats all youll get of James, she muttered.

All at once, she began to notice subtle changes. James was more distant, often late from work, taking sudden business trips, developing a sudden passion for fishing weekends. All the typical signs. As only a woman can, Emily sensed anothers presencesomething unsaid in the air.

Still, she tried to silence her doubts. Who knows, perhaps Im imagining things. Maybe hes innocent.

That evening, after James returned home, Emily set the table with his favorite stew and fresh bread. She knew: fill him up first, then sort out family matters.

When he finished eating, Emily turned to him, summoning her courage. James, are you in love?

I am, said James, wary.

Lily came by today. Is it true? Are you two serious? Emily asked, her heart pounding for the answer she dreaded.

Im a disgrace, Emily! I cant live without Lily. Ive tried to end it, but I cant. Please, let me go.

I release you, then. Emily knew it was pointless to beg, to remind him of the children. Life would take its course.

James left that evening to be with Lily.

Emily went to St. Johns for advice from Father Christopher. He listened to all her sorrow, offering what comfort he could: My child, love suffers long, and is kindit never fails. Those are the words of Scripture. You are within your rights to annul the marriage; your husband has broken his vows. Yet, you may also choose to forgive, to pray, and to wait. Gods ways are mysterious…

A few months passed, and Emily discovered she was expectingJamess child. She took it as a sign: perhaps, with time, he would repent and return. Hope, fragile yet bright, kept her afloat through the months until her son arrived.

Emilys mother, Margaret, suggested naming him Jackafter the English form of James. Perhaps your James will come back, darling. Life is full of surprises.

Thankfully, Margaret was always there to helpnurturing the children, telling stories, and supporting Emily at every turn.

James provided for Sophie and Thomasbringing toys, taking them to the seaside in Cornwall, sending money in a brown envelope for Emily. She forbade the children from mentioning baby Jack to their father. But what child can keep such a secret?

Sophie blurted it all out to James on one of her weekend visits. He assumed Emily had moved on, that the baby must be another mans. Bitterness mixed with nostalgia for what had been. He never guessed Jack was his.

Meanwhile, Lilys own path twisted with hardship. After a difficult spell in the maternity wing, longed-for cravings and fruitless dashes for pickled onions and chalk, Lilys baby girl was stillborn. Tragedy struck againa second pregnancy ended in miscarriage.

Devastated, Lily needed time to recover. Fate, however, cared nothing for plans.

Throughout it all, James stayed by Lilys side, wracked with guilt and sorrow for the disappointments their future had dealt them.

Back at home, Emily reconnected with an old university friend, William. Hed admired her for yearsduring their studies, after graduation, even proposed once, but Emily had only seen him as a colleaguesteadfast, but dull and fussy, forever doted on by his mother, lacking any spark. The girls all fancied William, but the moment Emily met James, William was cast asideuntil now.

One drizzly, grey afternoon, Emily found herself sat by a bus window, lost in thought, when William appeared at her side.

Mind if I join you? he asked.

Go ahead, she replied, scooting over, eyes still on the rain.

He started chatting, refusing her silence.

Emily, its been an age! How are things? he finally said, cheerfully. She turned to him at last, surprised and oddly cheered.

William! I havent seen you in donkeys years!

Tell me everything. Are you happy? he asked gently.

Come for tea, please. Is your wife all right with you stopping by? she laughed.

William brought wine, apples, and plenty of treats for the children. Over supper, Emily poured out everything to himher pain, her fears, her doubts. William listened quietly, nodding in understanding. At the end of her confession, Emily kissed him on the cheek, grateful for his support.

William, as it happened, had never married, nor had he any children. Perhaps it was fate.

He began visiting Emily and the kids, bearing gifts for the little ones and always a bunch of flowers for Emily. She set out clear boundaries: By all means, come round, but Im waiting for my husband. This isnt going to be anything else.

Even this much was happiness enough for William. Ill think of you as my sister, and the children as nephews and nieces, he said, settling easily into the family.

Life went on. In Jamess house, finally, joy arrived. Lily gave birth to a healthy daughter, Gracea name altogether close to God.

Lily was swept up in motherhood, but often remembered her meeting with Emily. Stolen happiness was never sweetjust bitter.

Only after Graces birth did Lily fully understand the pain shed inflicted upon Emilys family. Trouble never teaches wisdom, she mused, longing to seek Emilys forgiveness.

James adored baby Graceshowering her with new rattles, tending her cot at night, relishing bath times. Lily watched, full of tender pride.

The current of time flowed on, as it always does.

Five years slipped by.

The children grew. The adults aged and changed.

Then tragedy struck: Lily fell seriously ill. She was only thirty. James was beside himselfhospital visits, doctors, expensive treatments, costly medicines.

Lily began her farewells to the world. Sensing the end, she gathered her strength and asked, James, will you take me to your first wife? Please?

At first, James was surprised. But he agreed.

Emily had heard of Lilys illness from Sophie, who still visited her father. So, when James rang requesting a meeting, Emily said yes.

James carried Lilyfrail as chinainto Emilys home.

Everyone gathered, waiting for some explanation.

Emily, arms crossed, indicated the bed. James laid Lily gently down, propping her up with pillows.

Please, leave Emily and me alone, Lily whispered.

Silence reigned as the family left.

Emily approached, taking in the pale, sick face. Ive seen better in a coffin, she thought wryly.

She perched at Lilys side.

Forgive me, Emily. Ive been punished enough. But I beg youtake Grace as your own. I have no one but James and… you. Promise me youll raise her together?

Tears coursed down Lilys cheeks.

Emily gently took her hand. Lily, its not God who punishesits we who bring the hurt. I forgave you long ago. Rest easy about Graceshes family now. And you both must stay here. James needs you close, Grace too. My house is big enough, well manage together. I promise, youll recover. You must try, Lily, and have hope.

The house became a shelter, like a fabled English manor, welcoming all.

Everyone cared for Lily, but it was William who proved most attentive, spending hours at her bedside, talking her through her darkest moments, offering hope. He called Grace his wild daisy, loving the girl as his own.

Lily clung stubbornly to life, inspired by Emilys compassion and Williams devotion.

Months of agonising treatments went by. Gradually, Lily began to recover. Soon she could walk outside, feel the English sun, murmur to herself in the bracing wind. Slowly, almost imperceptibly, life returned.

Her feelings for William deepenedshe could never stop loving James, but he was anothers husband. “Don’t ogle what isn’t meant for you,” she remembered from her childhood. William, in contrast, was kind and true, loving both her and Grace deeply.

At last, the day came when Lily announced over one final Sunday roast, Emily, James, Grace and IWilliam tooare leaving. Thank you for your haven, for kindness, for a love I never expected! Ill never forget you.

James and Emily exchanged glances. Theyd seen William and Lilys growing affection.

Long before this, James and Emily had a difficult talk.

Emily, no matter what happens with Lily, I want to come home to you. Your generosity knows no bounds. Will you take me back? Its time to raise our three childrentogether. I beg you. Please forgive me!

Oh, James, do you really think Id turn you away? I may even owe you an apologyclearly, I wasnt wife enough, if you strayed. Life teaches us all, whether we want to learn or not! Emily laughed, embracing her prodigal husband.

And what about Grace? Shes your daughter too, Emily asked, worried.

Shell always have a home here, and a father in me, James replied firmly.

William, Lily, and Grace made their farewell preparations. At the door, Lily called James aside.

Love Emily more than life itself! Never let her down again. Ill always remember you, James.

Be happy, Lily, James replied, tears brimming.

And so we learnt, sometimes, love means enduring, and to endure takes love itself.