So long and so quick

Many years ago today... in fact 45 years ago today I made the second best decision of my life. I walked down the isle at Bible Baptist Church and waited at the altar for my beautiful bride. I was nervous. I remember thinking, "This can't be happening to me!" But it was and I am thrilled that I didn't follow my future mother-in-law's advice and leave.

Since that day I have traveled many miles, fought many "demons", knocked on many doors and slammed even more. I have been blessed with three children and six grandchildren. We have moved from the north to the south and from the east to the west. We have struggled to place crumbs on the table and lived in a mansion. I have experienced a vehicle with brakes so deteriorated that the only way to stop was crunching down on the emergency pedal - plus the tires were bald and the muffler was held on by coat hangers. I have also owned three luxury cars and too many top of the line new vehicles to remember. I have purchased clothes at used stores and paid many hundreds for a new pair of shoes.

I guess I am saying that the past 45 years have been filled with many ups and downs... good and bad... happy and sad... full and lean years. I have made many mistakes. But, one thing has remained consistent, my decision 45 years ago gave me a companion who has been with me every moment and step of the way. She has been God's sand paper to smooth some rough edges. She has been the prayer warrior I have always needed. She has been by my side and had my back in ways I do not deserve - but I'm glad she did.

We have reached a point where people are beginning to ask how we have done it - How have you built such a strong and godly marriage. That is easy to answer and difficult to produce. The answer is two fold... first, God has been given freedom to live and move among us. Second, my wife has fought for it. I love her because she first loved me. I protect her because she always protects me. I give to her because she has given everything to me. I elevate her in my heart because she has held me there first. I love her unconditionally and totally because she has loved me in that manner.

God deserves the glory and my wife has earned the honor. I love you Marilyn more than words can say.

My first best decision??? Allowing God's grace to cover my sins and give to me eternal life.

I have never regretted either decision.