"Promptus et Fidelis"

Sometime in the 14th Century Scottish King Robert the Bruce gave the Carruthers Clan a family crest, coat of arms and a family motto.

I'm a historian, but I'm not real big on family heritage - not that I'm embarrassed by it, either...But when I learned of the Carruthers' (my family dropped the second 'r' when they came to America) family motto I made a point of remembering it every day.

Because 'Promptus et Fidelis' is the way I live my life!

"Promptus et Fidelis" = "Ready and Faithful"

I am hardly a perfect person, and am far from a perfect husband.  But I am very proud to have always been "Ready and Faithful" when it comes to my marriage...Other than the day of my birth and my inevitable death, 24 years ago, August 1, 1992, was the most important day in my life.  It was a day which took "Promptus et Fidelis" to another level for me.

People ask me all the time what's the secret to a long, happy marriage...I tell them there is no secret.  Relationships of all kinds require work, patience and the want to truly make them work.  Half-hearted efforts end in divorce.

Luckily, I found a woman who not only took my family name, but also lives the family motto..."Promptus et Fidelis" is the secret to our success.

Happy Anniversary, Melissa...You are my reason for being.