Love Of My Life

Teo Torriatte (Let us Cling Together) - July 12, 2019

Photo of sunset on the West Coast Trail

Recommended song - Teo Torriatte (Let us
Cling Together by Queen, written by Brian May.

Tyler's POV

They woke before dawn, carefully packing and cleaning the area before setting off. The day before had proved to be a long day, mostly due to the lengthy drive and shuttle from Victoria to the trailhead then hiking to Darling Creek. Physically it had been an easy going hike and Tyler knew that the next few days would be physically challenging.

The West Coast Trail , which consists of 70 ladders, 130 bridges, and four cable cars, would require them to cross deep ravines and navigate the great wilderness, rain forest and beaches. It was a challenge that both he and Benjamin welcomed.

They set off at first light and Tyler felt at complete peace with the quiet and beauty. It was exactly what he needed and he was glad to be there, more importantly he was glad to be there with Benjamin.

As they set out on the beach, appreciating the views that surrounded them, Tyler couldn't help but reflect on his life.

He did not view his life as tragic, in fact quite the opposite. He went through a tragic event and traumatic years, there was no denying that but he did not think of his life as tragic.

He knew how loved and treasured he was by his family. He knew how his friends valued and appreciated him. He knew how much Benjamin loved and adored him. He knew all of this and felt enormous gratitude for all of the people that had influenced his life.

The road that he was on was not a smooth one. University proved more difficult than he initially thought it would be BUT he was succeeding and that gave him pride. It would be another 6 to 8 years before he could practice law but his vision for his future was clear. He would be instrumental in reforming laws to give children more control of their future.

He remembered when he was nine years old and had gone to court for the last time, to testify against Karen and Dave. Terrified and nervous he made his way to the witness stand. He was nearly in tears and the judge stopped the proceedings, asked for a recess and dismissed everyone from the courtroom, everyone but Tyler. He worried that he had done something wrong and started to cry harder. The judge passed him a tissue and softly spoke to him.

*Young man, I know that you are scared. If I was you I would be scared too". The judge said gently. Tyler looked up and saw the bearded judge with the kind eyes and reassuring smile. Tyler just nodded at the judge.

"Nobody will hurt you here. I promise you that. When you talk you just look at me ok? You pretend they are not there. There are laws to give them the rights to a trial but the children that are affected don't have the rights and for that I am sorry. I am sorry that you have to endure this. I am sorry that you have to see them. I am sorry that it is someone else that makes these huge decisions that affect your life. I think you are very brave and I commend you for that. So take a deep breath. Turn your chair a bit so you just look at me and when they come back in, you hold your head high and speak up and be proud of you. I sure am".

Tyler had never received such praise and he had never forgotten the judge. He had made a lasting impression on his life. In his second semester at University he had the great forune to meet him again. Judge Gordon was a visiting lecturer and Tyler intruduced himself after the class. He had expected the judge to have completely forgotten about the scared boy from ten years before but to his astonishment he easily recalled him.

They caught up over coffee and the retired judge was nearly in tears when they departed. "Keep fighting Tyler. I'm proud of you!" He said like a proud grandfather embracing him on the sidewalk. It fueled him on.

Sunset was his favorite time of the day. The days were grueling at times, it often rained which slowed them down somewhat, the ladders were often slippery so they had to be extra careful. They would press on, encouraging each other and just when they would reach a low point in their day they would reach a magnificent view that would put everything back in perspective.

Sunset, however, signalled rest and snuggling which they were both very dependent on the other for. Tyler would set up their tent and bedding while Benjamin would get the fire and supper going. They would sit on a blanket and kiss and talk. Benjamin would sing to him every night and Tyler loved it.

When I'm gone
No need to wonder if I ever think of you
The same moon shines
The same wind blows
For both of us, and time is but a paper moon...
Be not gone

"Interesting fact about this song" Benjamin began (as he always did when giving the explanation of songs) "it is not about death like many believe. It was, in fact, written for the fans in Japan that had completely embraced them when they went on tour there in 1975. The song was on their album "A night at the opera."

Tyler smiled. He love the random facts that Benjamin always put into conversations. To him it was interesting and made Benjamin even more adorable.

The song was beautiful and he loved the meaning behind it, clinging together. That is what he planned with Benjamin, clinging together, depending on one another, being the love of each other's life.

"Will we get married?" Tyler blurted out as Benjamin finished the song. He was expecting Benjamin to take some time to answer but surprised him with blurting out just as quickly "of course we will. Not a doubt in my mind. When would you like to marry me?" Benjamin looked lovingly at Tyler and waited for his reply.

" I don't want to wait until I am done school. I want to be with you in every way. I don't jusy want to live together and be boyfriend's. I want to walk down the aisle and say my vows in front of our family and friends. I want to build a life with you".

Benjamin got up, reached in his pocket and got on one knee. Tyler was blown away. He had not expected a marriage proposal, with a ring!

"Tyler, you are the most important person in my life. I am inspired by you daily. I love your humor and passion. I had never felt like this before, not even close. I was functioning but not truly alive until you came and changed my life. I promise to always protect you, always love you, always trust you and you can always rely on me. Please marry me". Benjamin looked at him with such love and devotion and it was reflected back to him.

"I would be honored to marry you. Thank you for making me a better man. Since meeting you, I feel more confident, more centered, more at peace. You came into my life and though there wasn't the love that we share now, it was significant in how I am today. Thank you for that. I can't wait to build my future with you. I love you so much Benji." He watched as the simply designed band was slipped on his finger. They kissed and embraced and giddily went to the tent and made love.