50 GOING STRONG: Mr. and Mrs Reid (Vincent and Adina ) celebrating 50 years of marriage. - Contributed
ONLY weeks ago the Reids, a loving couple, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. In what was described as "a bashment," Adina, a seamstress and Vincent, a retired government worker, showed just what helped to keep their relationship going for so long.
Adina, 74, and Vincent were married March 4, 1951.
The Reids, although having no children of their own, are regarded as a mother and father to hundreds, especially schoolchildren who go to their their home for fruits. And, adults cannot help but see the couple as an example for young people who want a lasting relationship.
"Our marriage lasts because we understand each other. We give and take and we work together," Adina told THE WEEKEND STAR. Vincent was equally supportive of her view. "Yes, we have always been understanding with each other," he said.
Adina recalled that after they met, although she had been seeing Vincent for several months, she was not in love with him. So, if he hadn't invited her out perhaps the relationship would not have started.
"I was learning catering at Amy Bailey Training Centre at the time. I would see Vincent going and coming but I said nothing to him. But, I didn't disagree when he said he wanted to take me out. That's when I know he was in love with me," she said.
Unlike some couples who cannot wait for their relationship to mature, Adina said it was about three years before they decided to get married. "We didn't have any money for any big wedding, It was just a small party who met with the minister, but one thing for sure is that we wanted our relationship to last."
She loved Vincent because he was hardworking and he loved her because, among other things she knew how to prepare his meals and his clothes.
The Reids have had many trying periods including the time when they realized that Adina was unable to conceive. She said this is something which has led to break-up of marriages. "I love children so we adopted a number of children, some being those of our relatives," she said.
As soon as these children were educated the Reids ensured that they got jobs. One of those children, Moreen Brown, lives with the Reids.
"The Reids are very pleasant people. They motivate me and others to work hard and achieve our goals. They sent me to do skill training in embroidery and I will always remember them even when I leave this place," she said.
The Reids feel they have set an example for the couples in their community to follow and that more loving couples are needed to ensure more stable family lives.
