Sitting here on a Sunday afternoon so grateful for the man that God gave me to be my husband. He is kind, thoughtful, patient, and very loving. I am blessed that he loves me for who I am and all, and I do mean all, my faults. I do my best, but after a nervous breakdown, and having back pain for six years running, I know life with me isn’t easy.
We just finished watching a movie ( I won’t go into detail because he made me promise I’d never tell that he enjoys these movies) but at one point I can honestly say we were both reaching across the small table that divides our high back, back supporting chairs, holding hands, and sniffling.
At my feet were our two precious rescue pups (although not really pups anymore since one is 10-years of age and the other is 8) and I just felt safe and warm and content.
What hit me is that this wonderful man and I will be celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary this year. We are not sure yet what we will do to celebrate (we were considering Walt Disney World, but our oldest pup can’t handle us being gone for more than a few days – so that is out). We made reservations at a special restaurant, and we are considering new wedding bands. (Our original bands were purchased in a rush as we headed to Vegas to “elope” over a quick weekend getaway.)
However, what I have realized during our marriage is that it isn’t what we get, or where we go, that matters when celebrating a special occasion. What does matter is that we are together. What does matter is that we have a love that we work at and know is worth fighting for no matter what. We have a love that withstands the worst, as we have been through some tough times together over the last 12 years.
We know when and how to give each other time to do what we enjoy…and that is more for my husband, as I really don’t have any hobbies. And, I know he needs time away from me doing what he enjoys.
I am not saying every day is easy. We “discuss.” We groan. I go off on tangents. Our marriage does take work.
The key for us is working at keeping Christ the center of our marriage. It isn’t about me or about my husband. It is about us, as one, growing together as a couple.
I’ll admit I believe my husband is much better at it than I am when it comes to this marriage. I have this bizarre stubborn, independent streak that loves to rear its head. Hopefully I am learning to control it, but I know I have my days…and I get to say I am sorry a lot.
The most important thing to me is making sure my husband knows I love him; that he knows I appreciate every little thing he does – laundry, dishes, picking up after our pets outside area. And, he does so much more.
I’ve been blessed with a wonderful family and home. And, today, I just really feel thankful to God for giving me such love in my life.
