PrintOur Journey Through The Valley (33)
26 July, 2013
Yesterday we celebrated our 49th wedding anniversary. We have been away with friends for the better part of the last week (which, incidentally, is why I have not kept the updates as fresh as usual). In fact Bev and I spent most of the day on a train as we returned home.
It seems to me that wedding anniversaries afford us the opportunity to renew our commitment to each other. I took the time available on the train (6 hours) to write down some of my reflections and, with Bev's full permission, I'd like share them with you. I do so with the hope and prayer that others may be encouraged to do likewise.
My Darling,
As we enter our 50th year of marriage, one can't help but wonder just what is awaiting us by way of blessing and trial, joy and heartache.
Forty nine years ago today we stood together before friends and family and in the presence of our God. We made a pledge that we would walk life's journey together. We would endeavour to love one another deeply, serve one another humbly and do so in the exclusiveness of the marriage covenant.
What a privilege it has been for me to have you as my life's companion!! While neither of us would deny that there have been times when things have been tough-going, we have honoured our commitment to each other.
Your life and your love have enriched my life more than I could ever express in words. Your support and understanding during those times when others challenged my integrity and questioned my motives made the difference between carrying on and giving up.
In the nature of the work God called us to do, it was you who provided the stability within our home and for our children. The evidence of that statement can be seen in our three beautiful children and their life choices. What a tribute they are to your parenting skills and commitment and the home you established for us.
And now we face the greatest challenge of all; Motor Neurone Disease. We anticipated this 49 years ago on this very day with the words, "..Till death us do part...." What we couldn't anticipate was the nature of that departure!
Sweetheart, in the same way that I did 49 years ago today (but with a lot more awareness), I want to make another commitment to you today - no, it's the same commitment but one that I make with a passion that I trust will help you and honour you as we enter this final stage of our earthly journey together.
I am here for you in the same way you were going to be here for me. I will love you, honour you, cherish you and support you......"til death do us part"
All my deepest love now and forever
Mike
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