LONG TERM RELATIONSHIP

Everyone has a story, not a tale but a real-life story. 
In this particular case, it lasted from starting school together until death parted Ellie and Mike..

Ellie and Mike grew up in the same neighborhood. They were not friends - actually he teased and tormented her. She couldn't stand the site of him. As they grew into high school, he bugged her constantly for a date and she always said "no way".  Just before graduation, he signed up to go into the military. Our country was at war. Three days before he shipped out, he asked Ellie to marry him. To his surprise, she said "yes". They married and said good-bye. He was gone for a very long time. She found a job and waited.

Finally, the war ended and Mike came home.  Their love grew. Five months later Mike got sick. He saw many different doctors but none could diagnose his problems. Slowly his legs stopped carrying him. He became paralyzed. Family members cared for Mike while Ellie continued to work a full time job Then she would come home and take over Mikes care. Many months later the doctors agreed that Mike's sickness was born from chemicals used in the war. He received very little compansation from the military or the veterans administration. Money was tight but they managed. 

Ellie remained on her job for 40 years. Mike never recovered. He died after 36 years of marriage. Ellie never regreted marrying him and never regreted caring for him.

Ellie never stopped smiling and never complained. She certainly had no problem with commitment!