BEN GAMEZ
Looking back, fifty years of marriage is truly a grace from God. Half a century together would not have been possible without the loving and supportive community that embraced us in Couples for Christ (CFC). Our regular household meetings, fellowships, and teachings became a steady source of nourishment through the years.
Since we began serving in CFC and at Sta. Teresita del Niño Jesus Parish in Quezon City, my wife and I have attended Mass every single day. Our weekly visits to the Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration Chapel deepened our faith, allowing us to listen to God’s Word and reflect together as husband and wife. Our service in Gawad Kalinga also ignited in us a lasting desire to help those in need. All these spiritual commitments strengthened our bond and drew us closer to God—and to each other.
Yet, it was in the ordinary and the mundane where we truly withstood the test of time. It was in simply being present for one another, in holding hands, in praying together upon waking and thanking the Lord for each other. It was in sharing meals and engaging in daily conversations where we learned to communicate clearly and understand each other’s thoughts and feelings.
Tita and I are best friends. From morning until evening, we talk—about our business, our children and grandchildren, and almost everything under the sun. We revisit the good old days, our younger years, and the many seasons we have journeyed through. We recount our blessings, reflect on our ups and downs, and remain grateful for the lessons each chapter has taught us. We often marvel at how the Lord has worked in our lives, appreciating every grace and quiet miracle.
Of course, differences remain. We still argue—but we do not fight. We choose compromise. When one speaks, the other listens. There is no need for raised voices—only loving presence.
Even after fifty years, we continue to discover new things about each other. We have learned to adjust to each other’s moods and needs, to respect limitations and boundaries, and to embrace both familiarity and closeness in our daily routines. We also understand the importance of giving each other space when needed. Still, we make it a point to eat together and pray together. We always end the day in prayer—lifting up everyone and everything to the Lord.
There is no secret formula to our marriage. We simply remained faithful to our wedding vows and to the sacred symbols that marked the beginning of our life together.
The Bible reminds us to put God at the center—above our business and at the heart of all we do. The wedding ring symbolizes our unending commitment, a love that continues to be expressed in small gestures—holding hands, saying “I love you,” offering a gentle kiss on the cheek, and choosing to love each other even in our less lovable moments.
Because I love Tita deeply, I vowed to love those she loves. Her family became my family. Often, I prioritized her family as my own, and she has shown the same generosity toward mine. This mutual love has been a true blessing from God.
The veil placed on the groom’s shoulders and the bride’s head reminds us of responsibility and respect. I have strived to be a good provider for my wife. In turn, Tita respects my decisions—always after thoughtful discussions, prayers, and many “what ifs” and “maybes.” In the end, she stands beside me in support.
As for the arrhae, from the very first day of our marriage, I entrusted all my earnings to Tita. By God’s grace, she helped us build our own business. Together, we worked hard—not only to provide for our two daughters, but also to support the families of our employees.
To this day, we still feel the same love for each other. Renewing our vows and celebrating our Golden Anniversary last December 27, 2025, was an extraordinary milestone. It reminded us that from the very beginning, we chose to love each other—and we continue to choose that love each day, until the end.