by Rasbert Turner, Star Writer

Mr. and Mrs. Telbert Roberts. - Ricardo Makyn

spanish town

It is said that when pride is in the family, it stays together. This belief has guided the marriage of Telbert and Salomie Roberts who have been together for the last 29 years.

It was a union made in heaven and manifested itself in the church where both 20-odd-year-olds met in Penwood, St. Andrew - a meeting both said in a chorus "We can't figet."

"I believe it was the right thing that happened. I was sitting inside the church one Sunday in 1977, when he asked me to call someone for him. I was admiring how he was quiet. And, later that night, he came and sat beside me in church and it done," remarked Salomie.

As Salomie recalled their meeting, Telbert, affectionately called 'Herbie', kept on smiling, while adoring his lovely wife. He pointed out that it was love at first sight and the relationship gradually blossomed. But, the bond was not without its trial, however.

They were married on November 4, 1978, by Reverend Albert Thompson at the Constant Spring Church of Christ. Two days later, Salomie was supposed to leave for England with the Jamaica Defence Force, of which she was a member, but Herbie would have none of it.

"I just took her on our honeymoon to Ocho Rios at Turtle Towers, and we did enjoy ourselves," he said.

Only child

Salomie spent several years in the army, before she and her husband migrated to Brooklyn, New York in the United States. They were blessed, while there, with the birth of their only child, Kerry-Ann, who still lives abroad.

They were quick to point out to Life and Times that, although they were 22 and 23, respectively, when they got married, trust, loyalty, respect and love have been the hallmarks of their long union.

"Without respect, you will not learn how to trust or honour the relationship, and when you are married, there are several obstacles. However, if you are focused you can get over them," said Mr. Roberts. His wife added that it makes sense for them to work together and not to believe rumours, as they will wreck the foundation of the relationship, and in everything, one needs to put God first.

Both said if they had their lives to live all over again, they would make similar choices, as it has proven worthwhile.

Salomie was born in Faith's Pen, St. Ann, and is the last of 14 children. Telbert is from Guys Hill, St. Catherine. Their marriage is a testament to the institution that what God has put together, let no man put asunder.

Mr. and Mrs. Telbert Roberts. - Ricardo Makyn