Love and Marriage

Do you see anything special about this picture?  I mean - it isn't really centered.  The sunlight is doing weird things to our faces.  There is a glare on our glasses.  It clearly shows my double chin!  :))  But, other than that - see anything that stands out to you?

I do.

I see a couple that was given no chance whatsoever at ever making their marriage work.
I see 25 years of work.
I see 2 people who made a choice to love each other.
I see 2 people who somehow survived raising 3 children (and getting them all married and out the door).
I see 2 people who have laughed A LOT in 25 years.
I see 2 people who have cried A LOT in 25 years.
I see 2 people who have prayed A LOT in 25 years.
I see 2 people who have struggled A LOT in 25 years.
I see 2 people who have moved more times than I care to count.....again.
I see 2 people who have managed to survive a cancer scare.
I see 2 people who have spent most of their 25 years finding mere pennies to think we were rich.
I see 2 people who have learned some VERY tough lessons from their heavenly Father!
I see 2 people who ARE CHOOSING to make a marriage.

I guess my mind is turning a lot recently.  Today, I was involved in a conversation regarding people listening and doing what they are asked to do.  The statement was made "Kind of like, please don't have an affair since we are married".  I just about died of shock.  I looked at the person with what must have been a shocked look on my face.  She said, "Well, it seems like I hear that about someone every time I turn around".  This conversation was with a couple people no where close to be associated with church.  Lately, I have been thinking quite a bit about this.  I am by no means an expert on the subject of marriage but here is one tiny thought.  I choose daily to love my husband, respect him as Christ would have me to, and be committed NO MATTER WHAT!

Now, don't my two readers go off thinking we are getting divorced or anything of the sort.  To be honest, I think we are happier than we have ever been.  At least I think so - Dave may say otherwise!  :))))  And, it could be that we are thoroughly enjoying the empty nest as well!  :))) No, seriously - I just have become so burdened for our families.  I have even called or texted or done Facetime with all my kids recently saying, "Hey - stay focused!  Stay committed!  Stay close!  Stay WITH Jesus!!"  You can ask them - I am sure they will tell you that is the truth!

When all else fails, when everything goes wrong, when life just stinks - grab their hand, take off, pray, laugh and make a fresh promise to MAKE IT WORK!!!