36 years of marriage! That's what they're celebrating today!But really, it's a celebration for the whole family. With today's divorce rate, staying married 36 years is a big deal. I have a divorce in my past. I have been blessed with the gift of a second chance and a new marriage (though I certainly don't deserve it!) and have been married 6-1/2 years. I have an idea of how much work marriage is...but let's be honest, if we compare my 6 years to their 36...I haven't got a clue!
Being the first-born of 4 children, I have seen the "better or worst" and the "sickness and health". I have seen the "ups and downs" the "good and the bad". That's why this is a celebration for our whole family. There have been dark days...days when my parents easily could have said "WE'RE DONE!" and walked away.
But they didn't do that. They stuck it out, they ran the race, they fought the good fight. Why? Because it felt good? Because they were happy? Because they were in love? Because they had the "butterflies" when they were around each other? No. Of course not. Those things fade. The secret to the success of this marriage is commitment. They are committed to each other, but even more importantly...there is a third person in this marriage and they are committed to HIM.
What a GIFT to the rest of us! They have four children...2 of which are married, 1 will be married in the next few months, and the 4th will someday go down this road as well. The example Mom & Dad have given us of what it means to be committed to Jesus and to each other is priceless. Much better than any Bone China (which is the traditional gift for 36 years according to Google!), silver, gold, namebrand clothes, extravagant vacations, brand new cars, or anything else I may have thought I "needed" as a youngster.
Now, after sticking it out through the rough spots, I see a relationship between my parents that I've never seen before. They laugh, they have fun, they ENJOY each other...all the time! They remind me of newlyweds, newlyweds with the wisdom and knowledge of each other that only comes with years of loving one another.
So, Mom and Dad, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!! And thank you. Thank you for being committed to Jesus, to each other, and to us. It really is the gift that keeps on giving, and your children and grandchildren are reaping the benefits. Your sacrifices haven't gone unnoticed...here in this world nor in Heaven above. You are and will be richly blessed. I love you both so much!
But they didn't do that. They stuck it out, they ran the race, they fought the good fight. Why? Because it felt good? Because they were happy? Because they were in love? Because they had the "butterflies" when they were around each other? No. Of course not. Those things fade. The secret to the success of this marriage is commitment. They are committed to each other, but even more importantly...there is a third person in this marriage and they are committed to HIM.
What a GIFT to the rest of us! They have four children...2 of which are married, 1 will be married in the next few months, and the 4th will someday go down this road as well. The example Mom & Dad have given us of what it means to be committed to Jesus and to each other is priceless. Much better than any Bone China (which is the traditional gift for 36 years according to Google!), silver, gold, namebrand clothes, extravagant vacations, brand new cars, or anything else I may have thought I "needed" as a youngster.
Now, after sticking it out through the rough spots, I see a relationship between my parents that I've never seen before. They laugh, they have fun, they ENJOY each other...all the time! They remind me of newlyweds, newlyweds with the wisdom and knowledge of each other that only comes with years of loving one another.
So, Mom and Dad, HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!!!! And thank you. Thank you for being committed to Jesus, to each other, and to us. It really is the gift that keeps on giving, and your children and grandchildren are reaping the benefits. Your sacrifices haven't gone unnoticed...here in this world nor in Heaven above. You are and will be richly blessed. I love you both so much!
12 comments:
Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!!! Love you both so much!!!
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY to a dear couple! Here's hoping for many more!
Oh my - - - are you talking about US????
Thank you sooooo much.
What a lovely tribute to your parents. I will never get to know them personally, but feel like I do. My only contact is through the blog. Keetha and I get a lot of pleasure visiting. No marriage is perfect, but to make it work is the key. Best wishes on yours.
nice post Keri! I know you make your mamma an pappa proud!
A very well thought out tribute to your folks, and I hope their kids all have the same wisdom and priorities for their marriages. They are a good example for us all.
Keri I am a fan of your Mom's blog and came over to read this very sweet and heartfelt tribute to them, their marriage and God. I know that is what makes the difference. Blessings to you and your family.
I've been trying to figure out where we were when you took this photo - - - was it Dustin's wedding?
Just popped over from Keetha's blog to read your loving tribute to your parents.
What a shining example they have been to you all.
Well said! I'm also wondering if the pic is from D & K's wedding - almost 5 yrs ago already!
Wow! I'm getting a glimpse of what it feels like to have a blog as popular as Mom's! :) Thanks so much for all the comments!
Mom & Aunt Pam - YES this picture is from Dustin & Kayla's wedding.
What an awesome tribute to your parents and to Christ! I completely concur!!!
I jumped over here from your adorable mother's site!
Hugs/blessings,
Lana In Italy
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