*The following has been slightly adapted from a blog post I originally wrote on Feb. 14, 2017.*
My husband and I enjoy doing a little something for Valentine’s Day, but due to his work schedule and a church event we decided to celebrate on Saturday.
We had a marvelous time!
My parents joined us for a delightful brunch hosted by my church family from my college days, and it was the perfect way to start the weekend.
From there we grabbed a late lunch with my folks (hey, we like to eat, lol), and then my husband and I headed to the movie theater to see Loving.
Finally!
This movie came out in limited release in November and I was incredibly disappointed that it wasn’t in our area at the time. I recall sharing this sentiment on Facebook and receiving a particular reply that expressed the belief that maybe it was best that this film wasn’t being shown everywhere as not to heighten the very present racial tension our country is facing.
While I wholeheartedly believe this response was well-intentioned, I couldn’t disagree more.
Beyond the movie, this moment in our history is one of many that ought not be forgotten, whether or not it’s perceived as a convenient or comfortable time.
It depicts the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple from
Virginia who were legally married on June 2, 1958, in Washington D.C. However, their marriage was considered to be illegal in their home state.
Upon receiving an anonymous tip, the county sheriff and deputies raided their house in the middle of the night. They were told their marriage license was null and void under Virginia’s 400-year-old anti-miscegenation laws, and were jailed.
From there they began the battle of their lives, and ultimately, on June 12, 1967, the historical U.S. Supreme Court decision in Loving v. Virginia, invalidated state laws prohibiting interracial marriage.
There is clearly so much more to their story than this brief synopsis, but my hope is that if you’re not familiar with their journey to justice and equality, you will learn about their love for yourselves. If it’s not showing in your area it is now available on Blu-ray.
As the credits rolled, my honey and I definitely held our hands a bit tighter. We had a great discussion and an overwhelming sense of gratitude and humility.
I somehow managed to make it through the entire movie without letting a tear drop, until that incredible man of mine turned to me and told me that he’d always take care of me.
I could not hold it together after that.
We went on to grab dessert and wrapped up our evening with very full hearts.
I know Valentine’s Day is met with mixed emotions, and hey, to each their own! But we will always take every opportunity, whether in big or small ways, to celebrate the privilege, the blessing, and the gift that is our love and marriage.
Thank you, always, to the Lovings!!!!
