Love in the Park: A Conversation with Scott and Sasha on Building Lasting Bonds

Today was different as I strolled through my favorite park, not focused on my regular exercises and mental refresh time. But this time, I was equipped with a mic, a camera, and excitement to finally connect with friendly faces. As I walked around looking for who I would ask, I repeated the two questions I was trying to get accustomed to asking... "Why is human connection important to you?" and "What are things you do to stay connected with the people you care about?" These would be the basis of how Connected By would express its brand, my vision, and my heart. The need for human connection is so apparent to me, but what played in my mind while scanning the various people in the park is that not everyone may be comfortable with human connection. So what would I do? How would I respond if I heard a shocking response? I encouraged myself to welcome the conversation, hopeful that even with opposing views, the connection within the conversation would be one of humanity and respect for other people's views.

Walking alone, the warmth felt good after the last three weeks of unseasonably cold weather. Moms watched their kids on the playground, couples strolled leisurely, and the general vibe was one of soaking in the sunshine we hadn't seen in a while. Spotting a young couple enjoying lunch from a familiar local fast-food spot, I hesitated for a moment.

I noticed them sharing in a quiet moment within their family circle was such a beautiful sentiment. I walked around a bit, giving them time to finish their meal and to avoid waking the baby, who seemed to be sleeping, or giving their parents some quiet time. Having teens myself, I remembered how important those little moments were for my marriage. When I circled back, I cautiously approached, asking if it was okay to join their space, especially considering they had two full-sized German Shepherds keenly watching everyone's movements. I knew this breed to be very protective, and after all, I didn't come today to exercise, and a dash to the closest shelter was much too far.

Marriage can connect more than a bride and groom.

“Experiences are best when shared with people you love.”

• Scott

The Sound of children playing in the distance was the perfect backdrop as I watched the husband feed their little one while we chatted. Scott and Sasha would be the first of many people I've met who prefer a casual conversation rather than audio or video recording.

During our conversation, they shared that being with people allows them to share experiences with others. As they articulated their thoughts, Scott added that experiences are best when shared with people you love.

When asked for examples of things they do to stay connected with others, they shared stories of family dinners and vacations with both of their families. They intentionally used their home as a haven for both families to enjoy game nights, dinners, parties, and even for a simple hangout. I noticed from time to time, they would exchange glances, which seemed to be filled with shared memories and unspoken understanding.

I've heard numerous stories of feuds between mother-in-laws, daughters-in-laws, and Dads that didn't like their daughter's choice of men. But Sasha's warm demeanor exuded a certain radiance. She talked about her strong bond with her husband's family. Her sincere and genuine smile conveyed the deep connection forged over the years. I was intrigued by how there seemed to be such love across the extended families of this couple.

This may not have been a part of the original questions I practiced, but I was dying to dig in just a little deeper. We talked about how it all started, and it was nice to watch them smile and nod almost in unison as they naturally recounted their early years of dating. They explained that it started long before they were married by inviting their parents to the same holiday celebrations. Then that expanded to include additional family until, eventually, there was truly one big happy family. I asked Sasha her thoughts on in-laws with turbulent relationships. With a perplexed look that crinkled her brow, she expressed she could only imagine the additional stress it would put on a relationship if an entire family didn't get along. She paused and added if I wasn't close to his [Scott] family...without finishing her statement, she simply shook her head, and we all understood and felt the emotion of the distraught she would feel if that were her story.

Throughout our conversation, the couple's expressions vividly depicted their journey. I saw warmth and memories flood their eyes as they reminisced about their decade-long courtship before their 7 years of marriage. I was thankful that they took the time on this sunny and warm weather day to tell me about their connected experiences.