Wife appreciation day!

Since the theme for my last few posts have been family, this one is long over due. When I count my blessings, of which there are many, Sherelene is at the top of my list. God had blessed me with a wonderful partner, my best friend, and the love of my life. When I was looking around at family that assembled over the weekend I was thinking how it all started when two people fell in love. I often speak and show my images to big groups and I always mention that after 40 years of marriage we’re still madly in love. A lady asked Sherelene one evening “How after 40 years of marriage could you both be so much in love?” Sherelene respond, “Well he’s only been home 15 of the 40 years!”

I imagine that some of what has kept our relationship strong has been the long absences. However, I think the far more important factor is a few of things we learned early in our marriage. When going through a particularly rough time we were counseled by our Pastor and his words of advice have rung true for many years.

1. A marriage is not a 50-50 proposition, it’s a 100-100 arrangement. You have to be 100% committed to your partners needs, not 50%.
2. Love is a decision not a feeling. Many times you won’t feel like you;re in love, but you must decide that your commitment goes beyond the feelings of the moment.
3. Never go to bed angry. Resolve your differences before you sleep on them, even it only means that you agree that you strongly disagree, but still love and respect one another.
4. Never stop dating. Keeping a marriage strong means continuing to treat your spouse like you did when you were dating. If you are trying to win someone’s heart, you keep their heart by doing it the same way!
5. Learn to forgive and forget. It’s the example that Christ taught us, and it still is the best way…..
Forgiveness covers a multitude of sins.
1. Lastly, and most importantly, give your lives and your marriage over to Jesus and trust Him with your relationship and your own heart.

You may not need any of this “friendly” advice, but if you do, follow it with all your heart.

the pilgrim

Photo note: D700 and the classic 85mm f1.4 AF Nikkor lens.