The Benefits of Marriage
We have just crossed 40-year mark in our marriage and it seemed reasonable to reflect on what we have appreciated about those years. We hope it will stimulate you to consider what you have enjoyed most about your own marriage.
Roxann’s Reflections
Bob,
You have been my partner. We have worked together, bounced ideas off each other, raised three girls together. As a team, we doubled our strengths and covered each other’s weaknesses – except in the area of technology. We kind of bomb at that.
I like touching you. I like holding hands. I love it when you reach over in church and grab my pinky. I was bummed when they traded in the old pews for theater seats because now I can’t sit as close to you. I like watching Netflix movies on Friday night and cuddling on the couch.
I appreciate that you have provided for our family and for me. I have contributed; I have cooperated; but I have always known that the weight of our finances was being borne on your shoulders. Thank you for bearing it.
You have protected me. By God’s grace, you have never had to protect me from physical danger – well, except for driving on the Southern California freeways. But when it came to protecting me emotionally from people who seemed bent on taking me down, you took your stand in front of me on numerous occasions and wouldn’t allow it. Thank you.
You are logical, scheduled, and disciplined. You’ve allowed me to be a free spirit. When you understood that I found recipes constraining, you bought me The Improvisational Cook. I love it! The reason I can be me is because you are the Steady Eddy who balances me.
Finally I have enjoyed your companionship – car trips, hiking in Yosemite, reading Perretti to each other by a campfire. I have enjoyed your laugh. When you let loose, it is positively ridiculous – and I love it. I cannot imagine life without you. I don’t want to imagine it. I want to treasure all the rest of the moments God gives us. Thank you for 40 years.
And now, it’s your turn. What have you appreciated about your marriage? What are you grateful for? Write it down. Share your reflections with your spouse. Stick it in your Bible and keep adding to it.
