Sunny Ridge Living Care | June 2025

The sun spilled golden across the patio at Sunny Ridge Living Care as residents and staff gathered to celebrate something truly special: Ida and Rufus Webb’s 67th wedding anniversary. A record player spun soft jazz, and the smell of vanilla cake and fresh-cut flowers filled the air.

Side by side in their best Sunday clothes, Ida and Rufus sat hand in hand beneath a handmade banner that read: Still Holding On Since 1958. Their love was the kind you build a life on—quiet, solid, and still standing after all these years.

As part of the celebration, the local news stopped by to feature their story in a community segment called Good Folks of East Harris County. After a few smiles for the camera and a toast with sweet tea, the reporter, Mya, leaned in with the question everyone was waiting for:

“What advice would you give young couples just starting out?”

Ida didn’t hesitate. “Don’t go lookin’ for perfect. That’s not real. Find someone who’ll sit with you when it’s quiet and still say your name like it means somethin’.”

Rufus smiled, adding, “Stick with your promises. Say you’re sorry. Fold the laundry. Save the last piece of pie. That’s where the real love lives.”

The camera crew began packing up, but Mya lingered. Her voice dropped low, hesitant.
“Can I ask you something off the record?”

Ida and Rufus both nodded.

“I’ve kind of given up on love,” she admitted. “People don’t stay. What would you say to someone like me, someone who doesn’t believe this kind of love is out there anymore?”

Rufus leaned forward, his voice gentle. “Don’t go lookin’ for the kind of love that makes the papers. Look for the kind that shows up. The kind that listens. The kind that stays.”

Ida took Mya’s hand in both of hers. “Start by openin’ your heart just a crack. That’s all love needs, a little room and a little time. Don’t rush it. And don’t settle for someone who don’t see you.”

Rufus nodded. “Love ain’t loud, sweet Angel. Sometimes it just sits beside you and holds your coat when you’re tired.”

Mya’s eyes shimmered. “Thank you,” she whispered.

Ida smiled with the ease of someone who’s walked a long, beautiful road. “You’ll find it when you’re ready. And when you do, don’t let fear be louder than love.”