We have had a wonderful weekend celebrating our daughter's engagement to her partner ,Matt. They have known each other for many years and started with a solid friendship. They have helped each other celebrate their achievements and navigate through life's challenges. As I reflect on their commitment to each other I have taken the time to think of the value of marriage. Generations ago one reason marriage was important for women was to provide financial security. As independent, strong women we have many  opportunities  previous generations did not necessarily have. Both Kirsten and I are fortunate enough to be  professionally and financially  independent. However physical and emotional security is very important to us.  It helps us stay strong professional women. A strong marriage and partnership comes from feeling safe and knowing that your emotional needs will be met no matter how crazy and difficult our world becomes. Planning for  Kirsten and Matts' wedding is exciting , what is more important is to see the commitment they show to each other which will make sure they can stay committed to the vows they will make to each other next year. 

My birthday and wedding anniversary this weekend provided the perfect opportunity to reflect on the power of being present in someones life. When you give or receive a present it is an opportunity not to show how much money you can spend on someone but how you really take time to show you understand the other person and connect with real meaning. It has meant a lot to me that Michael has taken the time to find a paperweight made by my favourite glass artist here in NZ, Peter Raos, More importantly it symbolises a story that has  a lot of meaning to Kirsten, Michael  and myself. The story of the man walking along the beach throwing back starfish one by one. When questioned he replied that if he can save just one it was worth it. I would like to think that in our life we work hard to make a difference to all those around us. In a world of materialism seeking meaning through really being present in the life of our loved one is the greatest gift of all.