In the whirlwind world of romance, the question looms: is true love ever really instant, or simply the stuff of stories? As a teenager, I didn’t ponder such profound queries, as my focus remained on music and dreams of rock stardom. Growing up, I immersed myself in bands and melodies, influenced by the likes of Emerson, Lake & Palmer and Yes, but my heart also belonged to Elton John, thanks to my sister’s passionate fandom. The day we learned of Elton’s upcoming concert, we pestered our mom into taking us, and she graciously agreed to cram us and some of my sister’s friends into our trusty Ford station wagon. Among the crew was Susan, the younger sister of one of my sister’s pals, relegating us to the backseat—the perfect setting for unexpected feelings to blossom.
As the car rolled toward the venue, I caught my first glimpse of something profound. Susan, tall and captivating, boasted long brown hair and bright eyes that lit up with laughter. In that moment, everything else faded into the background, sparking a sensation I couldn’t comprehend. Was this true love? Despite the presence of Elton John on stage, my attention shifted from the performance to the girl beside me. She sang along, and I found myself in turmoil, questioning whether she felt any hint of connection or was simply obliviously engrossed in the music.
After the concert, I sought every opportunity to encounter Susan at school. Striking up conversations about new Elton albums became a clever ruse to ignite some connection. I’d call, share updates, and bond over our shared love for music, all while navigating the tortuous waters of unrequited affection. Yet, when I finally mustered the courage to reveal my feelings, I was met with kindness, but also the sting of rejection. She didn’t share my fervent emotions, hoping instead we could remain friends. Although devastated, I clung to the notion that perhaps time could change her mind.
Years drifted by, our lives swaying apart as I ventured into various bands while she flourished as a choir star. Eventually, life brought us to the same vicinity when our families changed addresses. That twist became fate. During a visit from Susan and her sister, the unspoken chemistry re-emerged. No longer burdened by braces and glasses, I enjoyed a new confidence that sparked a possible shift in our dynamic. She casually proposed the idea of going out, marking a pivotal moment in our relationship.
Our first date was a simple yet enchanting ice skating excursion followed by a casual meal. All the while, I reveled in her laughter and charm, even as she slyly outskated me. That night culminated with our first kiss, a moment I had yearned for since that inaugural concert.
Fast forward 50 years since that initial connection at the Elton John show, and Susan and I have journeyed through life as partners. Together, we’ve shared our love for music, built a life filled with adventure, and embraced the joys of marriage, parenthood, and grandparenthood. Through countless Elton concerts and numerous life events, that early spark transformed into a lasting flame, aptly displaying the magic of what it means to truly love at first sight—and beyond.