A Promise of Forever

The Narcissist Is Not Built to Last but Future Fakes a Flawless Fantasy

The Église de Saint Germain des Prés is one of the oldest churches in all of Paris, dating back to the 6th century! Built, destroyed, and rebuilt over the centuries, the church is decorated by marble columns and colorfully painted plastered walls. Walking the perimeter of the church reveals these layers in time.

My husband and I stumbled upon it by accident one perfect summer evening. A choir of people practiced for an upcoming mass as we stood in awe, lifted with their angelic voices that drifted upwards to the heavens. It was a timeless moment, one you hold in every cell of your body and in every chamber of your heart until your last breath.

It was not our first or last trip to Paris and one of many magic moments when sacred vows are whispered and holy promises are vowed in God’s house. I reached for his hand and leaned in to reaffirm that I would always be beside him no matter what. It seemed like one of those opportunities to light a candle, say a prayer, and swear fidelity and forever love. My fear of abandonment, early traumas, and dependent personality disorder needed frequent reassurance, and he was always ready to profess his devotion and commitment. He regularly said, “I am your husband. You can trust me. I will always be here…