Many years ago I watched the movie “Rob Roy” and from that day I hoped I could find a man who was manly in all of the beautiful ways a man is manly, but capable of loving me with an open heart and strong enough to be my equal – because it certainly takes strength for a man to allow a woman to be his equal. It was a dream I held on to and believed in for many many years and I never gave up on the possibility, even when it looked like I’d be a spinster forever! On July 12^th 2003, I walked into BQ Bar on Boat Quay, Singapore, and there he was at last. It was a magical night and it’s been magical ever since… with a couple of hiccups along the way.

The reason I love Steve the most is because of his courage. Many years ago I understood that this is the quality I admire the most in people and it was essential in my future partner. I’m not talking about male warrior type of courage (although Steve has that in abundance) – I’m talking about heart courage. The courage to love deeply and with abandon. The courage to admire and respect the person you are with, because it is the togetherness and equality that brings out the best in both of you. The courage to laugh all the way from your boots, and to fight in the same way, with the ability to say sorry quickly and enjoy making up. The courage to be who you are, when all around you others struggle with their identity. The courage to love your children deeply, to be willing to sacrifice everything because their well-being is what matters most, and to show them that sensitivity in a man is absolutely fine. The courage to love and serve those important to you. The courage to be strong when the world seems to be beating you down. And the courage to be open to new ideas, new ways of thinking and the courage to forgive.

Andy