21 years ago this month, I cradle-robbed a 30-something beauty and dragged her to the courthouse. It wasn't exactly the wedding ceremony a woman dreams of. As we waited in the corridor, bailiffs led guys past us in shackles. The judge was late, and half in the bag. Well, we got the marrying done, but I promised Ping I'd get her to a real church for a real ceremony, which I did the following April. It's been a few years since then, so it's really about time I wrote her a love song, don't you think?
PING
The new book, it didn’t sell.
The car’s transmission is shot to hell.
The check bounced ten miles high!
And your mama wishes… you’d picked that lawyer guy.
Our son lives at home. He’s twenty-two.
What’s this weary man to do
with fading dreams and a pile of debt?
Haven’t hit the Lotto yet.
And while we’re waitin’ for some day…
Your love feels warm here inside.
And if it takes us a lifetime
Girl, here’s one thing for sure: I’m in love with my bride.
The years advance, my hair retreats.
Here’s one more snack for my fat old seat.
Makes no sense. It’s such a crime.
I just get older, but you look fine.
It all goes on.
One day, and then two.
The tears and the laughs flow easy
When I share ‘em with you.
And while we’re waitin’ for some day…
Your love feels warm here inside.
And if it takes us a lifetime
Girl, here’s one thing for sure: I’m in love with my bride.
Babe, I’ve stopped waitin’ for some day…
Your love feels warm here inside.
I thank God for this lifetime
Cause girl, one thing is for sure: I’m in love with my bride.
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In case you're wondering, Ping is the inspiration for the long-suffering Jing in Zebulon Angell and the Shadow Army.
https://www.amazon.com/Zebulon-Angell-Shadow-Chris-Riker/dp/1637107056
