Happy Anniversary to Us

Twenty-three years ago, my wife and I said, “I do”.

Yes, there have been times over the past 2+ decades that my bride and I wondered why we made that decision. We’ve had ups and downs, highs and lows, ins and outs, overs and unders, backs and forths. We’ve had sorrow and we’ve had joy. Despite the questions, there are a few things that remind us of the bliss we always hoped to attain.

As I write this, my youngest is walking in from swimming with his friends. His long hair, charming smile, and energetic gate reveal a free spirit who loves every minute of life (except those hours before 6:30 a.m.).

My daughter is painting her bedroom a color of yellow that is similar to the center of the sun. I believe it may cause blindness if she looks directly at her walls. The room is as unique as my precious child. The light in her heart is reflected on these four walls.

My oldest is counting down the days, minutes, and seconds for his move to college. He is a man who knows what he wants to do with his life and is excited about the opportunities that await. I am proud of him and excited for this new chapter. But I won’t miss the beard hair in the sink.

These three precious gifts from God are wonderful validation of the twenty-three year old “I do”. The affirmation was proclaimed to the gathered assembly, to one another, and to God. And was the right thing. Sure, we would change some of the words we’ve said since then and some of the decisions we’ve made from year to year. Who wouldn’t? But there is no way you could convince me that we made the wrong choice way back then.

I suppose that’s why we renew that decision each and every day. And I couldn’t be happier.