Here we are now ten years running
Doesn't feel that long at all
I remember the 8th of August
Dancing in the wedding hall
We were so young, there's so much that we couldn't have known
We're just beginning to see what the future can hold
I'm learning that love is a beautiful garden
That's bursting with color when tended with care
And I'm learning that love is a wild endeavor
With no guarantees but the life that we share
And I'm learning that love is a sign and a wonder
Healing us more than we ever could know
And there's plenty of reasons why things can be left to grow cold
But I still believe in our promise to have and to hold
To have and to hold
Can't believe how fast they're growing
We were warned, but I'm still surprised
Children play but oh they're watching
Learning love before their eyes
We're sharpening arrows and aiming them into the sky
Over and over we're helping them learn how to fly
We'll show them a love that can live through an argument
Filled with forgiveness when hurt has been done
And we'll show them a love that can handle misfortune
And still be around when the morning has come
And I'm not naive we've got miles to go
But we've proven our love can grow deeper with time
And there's plenty of reasons why things can be left to grow cold
But I still believe in our promise to have and to hold
To have and to hold
All our days
To have and to hold
I'm learning that love is a beautiful garden
That's bursting with color when tended with care
And I'm learning that love is a wild endeavor
With no guarantees but the life that we share
And I'm learning that love is a sign and a wonder
Healing us more than we ever could know
And there's plenty of reasons why things can be left to grow cold
But I still believe in our promise to have and to hold
To have and to hold
"To Have And To Hold" by Pat Barrett is a heartfelt song that beautifully captures the journey of love and commitment in a marriage. The lyrics reflect on the ups and downs, the joys and challenges, and the growth that takes place over time.
The song begins by reminiscing on the early days of the relationship, acknowledging that they were young and had so much to learn. It speaks to the excitement and joy of the wedding day, where the couple danced in celebration of their love. It sets the stage for the rest of the song, highlighting the importance of the promises made on that day.
As the song progresses, it delves into the lessons learned along the way. Barrett sings about the beauty of love being compared to a garden that flourishes when nurtured and cared for. This imagery reminds us that love requires intentional effort and attention to thrive. It's a reminder that love is not passive, but an active choice and commitment.
The song also reflects on the unpredictability of love. Barrett acknowledges that love is a "wild endeavor" with no guarantees. It's a risk, but one that is worth taking. This sentiment echoes the biblical truth found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 that love is patient, kind, and perseveres through hardships.
Throughout the song, there is a sense of hope and determination to keep love alive. Barrett sings about showing love to their children, teaching them the importance of forgiveness, and modeling a love that can weather any storm. This aligns with the scriptural teachings found in Ephesians 6:4, where parents are instructed to bring up their children in the training and instruction of the Lord.
The song also touches on the idea of growth and maturity in love. Barrett acknowledges that they still have "miles to go," but they have proven that their love can deepen with time. This mirrors the biblical concept of love as a journey, where we continually learn, grow, and become more like Christ in our relationships.
In conclusion, "To Have And To Hold" by Pat Barrett is a song that beautifully captures the essence of love and commitment in a marriage. It explores the joys and challenges, the growth and maturity, and the hope and determination that come with the journey of love. The lyrics resonate with biblical teachings about love, forgiveness, and perseverance. It serves as a reminder that love is not just a feeling, but a choice and commitment to have and to hold.
