Everlasting Love - 44 Years and Counting of Kindness and Care

Contributed: Myrtle and Peter Davis, parents of seven children who have been married for 44 years!







Welcome back to our captivating series, "Everlasting Love," where every Wednesday in February, we shine a spotlight on couples who've shared the journey of marriage for 40 years and beyond. Today, let's immerse ourselves in the enchanting tale of Myrtle and Peter Davis, whose love story is as timeless as it is inspiring.

Colliecia Wright/Media Intern

Love isn't merely a word; it's a verb — an action that speaks volumes louder than any declaration. It's the unwavering commitment to show up for each other, especially when life throws its curveballs. And Myrtle and Peter? Well, they've perfected the art of love during their 44-year adventure together.

From the heart of Kingston, Jamaica; this dynamic duo has built their union on the sturdy foundation of three Cs: Commitment, Communication, and Conflict resolution. With seven beautiful children (four girls and three boys) and a shared passion for their Christian faith, they have weathered life's storms hand in hand, emerging stronger and more deeply connected.

So, how did it all begin?
Picture this: a serendipitous encounter in the quaint town of Good Hope, Clarendon. Peter, on a mission to visit a friend's sweetheart stumbles upon the radiant Myrtle who was on a stroll.

“I am from St. Ann but I had a friend who had a girlfriend in Good Hope, Clarendon. He was going to look for his girlfriend and asked me to accompany him. When I went, I met this beautiful queen,” says Peter.

Fate, it seems, had a plan of its own, orchestrating their paths to intertwine in a moment of divine love. For Myrtle, it was an unexpected meeting that sparked a whirlwind romance — one that would shape their lives forever.

“I took a Sunday evening walk to my cousin’s house and then this man turned up,” she beams.

Then the marriage came...
Fast forward to 1980, the year of their nuptials. Both at the age of 25, they embarked on the greatest adventure of all: marriage. “I think this was the perfect timing for us to get married,” says Peter.

With youthful exuberance and abiding faith in each other, they dove headfirst into matrimony, blissfully unaware of the incredible journey that lay ahead.

“It’s been an adventure ever since,” smiles Peter.

But what's their secret to overcoming hurdles along the way?
According to Myrtle, it all boils down to one simple yet powerful principle: communication. “By talking it over,” says Myrtle. Whether it's navigating disagreements or celebrating victories, open and honest dialogue has been the cornerstone of their enduring bond.

For Peter, active listening is paramount — a skill that has paved the way for resolution and deeper understanding. “We get over our differences by discussion, we talk about it,” he says. “You will have challenging moments but that doesn’t mean that you are supposed to give up, talk through your differences, and keep it moving,” adds Myrtle.

And amidst life's ups and downs, one constant remains: their unwavering faith. With Christ at the helm of their union, they find solace in knowing that some challenges are best entrusted to a higher power.

“We keep Christ at the centre of our marriage and that works for us,” says Peter.

What do they love most about each other?
For Myrtle, it's Peter's boundless kindness. Her hubby’s constant support fuels her dreams and passions. “He is very kind, if I ask for something, he will give it to me,” says Myrtle.

As an entrepreneur in the baking and juice business, she's found a steadfast ally in her devoted husband, whose selfless acts of love ignite her success. “If I run out of something he doesn’t hesitate to get it for me or take care of the bill.”

And for Peter, it's Myrtle's nurturing spirit — the persistent care that has been a guiding light through every twist and turn. “From the day we met, she has never stopped taking care of me, she is very caring.”

Peter, a dedicated sound engineer and deacon deeply involved in ministry, often finds himself immersed in his roles, keeping him consistently busy. On days when he has to be away, Myrtle prepares males for him so that he may have food to sustain him throughout the day. Even at nights when he has meetings, Myrtle stays up waiting until he returns. In their 44 years of marriage, kindness and care have been their love language.

Their advice for younger couples?
As they reflect on 44 years of shared laughter, tears, and everything in between, one piece of advice shines through: build together, no matter the odds. “Don’t be with your partner because they have something, build with them,” says Myrtle. She encourages couples to be willing and committed to build together. Peter agrees with his wife, “Commitment is key…they should not only commit in the good times but the hard times too”.

To the young couples embarking on their journey of love, take heed: cherish each moment, embrace the challenges, and above all, build a love that stands the test of time. After all, in the grand tapestry of life, there's no greater masterpiece than a love that lasts forever.

Colliecia Wright, a media intern at Golden Designs, specialises in crafting press releases and blog articles. As a final-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts and Technology at UTECH, she is dedicated to uplifting minds through the power of words.