This is the next video from Jefferson Bethke after his viral video called Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus. I have to say that watching this video stirred me deeply in my soul. I hope it does the same for you.
Is Your Spouse Your Friend?
The past few months have not been ideal for our family when it comes to attending Sunday morning worship services together. My wife, Suzie works in the retail field. She has asked for scheduling considerations for Sunday mornings. Her department manager has consistently scheduled her on Sunday mornings. This did not change after her request.
The result has been that I have been attending our services by myself. The best part of our Christmas celebration was being able to attend the worship service of First Baptist Church of Boynton Beach together. We joined the others in praying, singing and hearing from the Word of God. It was great.
After the service a lady behind us spoke to us, “I’ve seen you (looking at me) here on Sundays. Who is your friend (looking at Suzie)?”
How would you answer that question?
Our 6th Wedding Anniversary
Today is the 6th anniversary of my marriage to Suzie. I am very grateful for a wonderful life with my amazing wife. It seems that these are the traditional markers for the 6th anniversary:
- Flower – Calla Lily
- Gemstone – Amethyst
- Gifts – Candy and Iron
So, I guess I’ll be giving Suzie a box of chocolates and an iron. Sound good? On second thought, I don’t want an iron upside my head on this special day.
In these six years, we have lived in six cities. This is one tradition that we are not going to keep up with as the years roll on.
- Louisville
- Daytona Beach
- West Palm Beach
- Louisville
- Chattanooga
- West Palm Beach
We have had some great adventures together. From our Hawaiian trip to the Smokey Mountains to the Florida Keys to Disney World to various Florida beaches, we have journeyed to some fantastic destinations. Yet, we find just as much joy in spending a day with each other at home. On the road or at home, we like being with each other. God’s design for marriage is that two become one in marriage. We are two vastly different people, but have a union of spirit, heart, mind and body.
Happy anniversary, babe. I genuinely love you.
Footnote: Does your marriage have a prayer?
According to the Journal of Marriage and Family, common spiritual activities between a husband and wife are key ingredients to be happy or extremely happy. What are the activities?
- Pray together.
- Study the Bible together.
- Attend church together.
For those who participate in these activities, notice the difference in happiness compared to those who do not participate.
- Whites – 83% versus 69% (14 percentage points higher)
- Blacks – 73% versus 52% (21 percentage points higher)
- Latinos – 78% versus 65% (13 percentage points higher)
Would you like for you and your spouse to be happier together? I would encourage you to do the three activities listed above. To see the article from USA Today, click on the link below.
5 Memories on Our 5th Wedding Anniversary
On September 18, 2004, Suzie became my wife. In celebration, here are my five of my favorite memories. I have many more, but for today these make the top of the list.
1. The night we met.
In October of 2002 in Louisville, KY, I saw Suzie walking by me. I stopped her with the suave line, “Excuse me.” She stopped and we have been an item every since then.
2. Living at City Place in West Palm Beach, Florida.
From 2006 to 2009 we lived in downtown West Palm Beach in the best location in the city. (Click on the link above to check out City Place). Our balcony view was of the hot spot for residents and tourists alike. Fountains, shops, restaurants and concerts were all in full view from our place.
3. Trip to Wakiki in Hawaii.
In October, 2008 we spent several days around the island of Oahu. We had a beautiful beach view and enjoyed romantic days and nights together.
4. The Beaches
Living in South Florida allowed us to live a beach lifestyle. We enjoyed scooter rides along the beach, shell hunting, snorkeling, sun-bathing and swimming in the warm waters. Seafood along the beach was an added bonus.
5. Disney World
Suzie is nuts about Mickey. We made several memorable trips to The Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios. We enjoyed the characters, the rides and Suzie whipping me on the Buzz Lightyear ride.
I could go on and on. It has been a wonderful start to a lifetime together. I have been blessed with a woman who loves me and whom I love deeply.
