Gritting Your Teeth: A True Tale of Love

This past Saturday, we celebrated my parent's 50th wedding anniversary.

50 years.....

And, the thing I appreciate most is my parent's honesty that it has been no picnic.

No fairy tale.

There have been times of just simply gritting their teeth and getting through.

And, it's really that...

the getting through...

that we truly celebrate.

And, Saturday afternoon....they were surrounded by those who love them.

And, there were tears and laughter.

There was love and loss.

And, there was a bond among many of them that only Jesus brings.

This morning, I reached over to turn off my alarm.

And, I was struck by the date.

September 15th.

Nineteen years ago today, I walked down the aisle.

Full of hope.

Believing in forever.

And, twelve years later....

one of us stopped gritting our teeth

and walked out.

And, maybe your story is like mine.

Broken.

And, maybe the wounds are fresh.

Or, maybe there are scars that are still sensitive to the touch.

And, if that's you...

I want you to know....

He is there.

"If your heart is broken, you'll find God right there.  

If you kicked in the gut, he'll help you catch your breath."

Psalm 34:18  (MSG)

"When my soul is in the dumps, I rehearse everything I know of YOU....

my life is God's prayer."

Psalm 42 (MSG)

Rehearse everything you know of Him.

He is faithful.

He is a provider.

He is a safe place.

He is a father to the fatherless.

He is a healer of broken hearts & dreams

AND,.

He will NEVER leave or forsake you.

Happy Anniversary, Bill & Sherre!

Thank you for gritting your teeth.

For teaching me day after day,

that love is a choice.

 I love you.

I am blessed to call you mama & daddy.