Ten years ago, on prom night, Peter made a promise to Sally, his high school sweetheart. Standing beneath the bright lights of the gymnasium, the two of them swayed together to the soft hum of violins, their hearts beating in unison. Even though life was pulling them in different directions, they held on tightly to each other, as if their love could keep them from drifting apart. “I’ll be there,” Peter vowed to Sally, gazing into her eyes. “Ten years from now, Christmas Eve, in Times Square. I promise.” Sally,

Sarah was used to finding notes stuck to her front door. Each one carried the same message—angry, judgmental, and signed with a flourish by her neighbor, Mrs. Cardigan. “Mrs. Teller, I can’t believe I have to complain about this again. Your yard is a disgrace, and your house is an eyesore. It’s bringing down the entire neighborhood! Do something immediately before all our property values plummet. Sincerely,Mrs. Cardigan” Sarah crumpled the latest note in frustration and tossed it into the trash. Between caring for her three children, including a toddler

Standing Up for Love My wife, Megan, poured her heart and soul into our family’s monthly dinners. She wanted everyone to enjoy the meals she prepared, but instead of thanks and gratitude, all she received were harsh comments from my relatives. After seeing her in tears too many times, I decided to take action. I set up a secret test to figure out why they were so critical. What I found out broke my heart. Our family has a long-standing tradition of monthly dinners that started with my grandmother. She