- Carlington Wilmot/Freelance Photographer
Harold and Milcah Lynch tell the secrets of 50 happy years together.
THE BATTING average in marriages locally is no-where near 50, but Harold and Milcah Lynch who were wed at the relatively mature ages of 33 and 30 respectively, have managed to hit half a century.
The couple who tied the knot in December 1953 are happy, mobile and busy as bees. Today we get them to tell their secrets to those who are looking forward to ageing gracefully and to keeping the vow which fewer and fewer are managing to do 'til death do us part.
Milcah and Harold met at Seaforth Primary School where Milcah was a teacher and Harold went to join the staff.
"She was industrious, caring and kind," says Mr. Lynch.
Milcah, who admits that it was not love at first sight, says that she was always impressed by the fellow teacher's gentle mannerisms and his patience.
Later, they came together again, he as principal and she as a general subject teacher, at Whitfield All-Age School in Kingston, where they spent their years until retirement.
"The working relationship was without stress. It worked quite well for us," recalls Mrs. Lynch.
What is their best kept secret for love?
"I would not allow the sun to go down on my wrath. I would try to make it up one way or the other," said Mother Lynch. She also said that they would pray about their problems.
"There was lots of give and take," adds Mr. Lynch.
Their only child, Julie, who was adopted at the age of one, has been a source of happiness for them. Mrs. Lynch feels no regrets about having no other children. "Whatever the Lord does is well done," she says. "Julie came to us at a year old. We loved her and she loved us."
The couple say that they have always discussed plans together where finances are concerned. "We make the effort to live within our means and make plans for the future. God has been our guide in that," stated Harold Lynch.
The couple saved towards the purchase of their home in Vineyard Town. "We were fortunate in that we were able to pay it off long before retirement. It was not always easy, but God provided for us," Mr. Lynch adds.
Even though they are both retired, the couple have maintained a relatively high level of activity. They attend many events together.
Until 2001, Mrs. Lynch was in charge of the Vineyard Town basic school. She is very active in her church. Both have a strong affiliation to church even though they attend separate assemblies. Mrs. Lynch is Methodist and her husband is an Anglican. One of his happiest moments, says Mr. Lynch, was the day he was ordained a minister in his church.
There is always something going on at church. The couple are also members of the Retired Teachers Association. Mr. Lynch is a Justice of the Peace as well, and this keeps him occupied. Milcah, also keeps busy with church, does her own homework, some sewing and enjoys music. Harold Lynch gets his exercise from helping around the house. "There is no man work and woman work," he laughs when he tells Outlook this.
Both have recovered from illnesses, a fact for which they say, "we thank God."
Harold describes Milcah as kind loving and always willing to help where it is needed. After 50 years, says Milcah, Harold is still "passionate and gentle".
They wish for many more happy years together.
- Avia Ustanny
