Last night after the kids went to bed, Karen and I went for one of our very typical walks. A few times a week we just get out, just the two of us, and walk the neighborhood. We usually spend the time sharing thoughts on a current topic in our lives or praying for various items or just connecting with each other on how the day went.
Last night was one of the rough nights where one of us had really disappointed the other and the conversation was difficult.
This morning I woke up and was reminded how blessed I am to be married to Karen. She is a perfect helpmate to me and I would be lost without her. Since she came into my life 19 years ago, I have been changed for the good.
Karen gently chides me when my over-zealous drive runs over people. She strongly but respectfully rebukes me when my passion for truth becomes poisonous to others around me. She has been my greatest cheerleader and teacher in regard to my public speaking. She sits thru every session, whether she’s heard it before or not and then always offers ways I can improve.
I would be a terrible husband and father were it not for Karen’s work in my life. She helps me love her, and others, by giving me grace when I need it and discipline when I need that. She warmly moves me toward my children and reminds me regularly of the legacy we are hoping and striving to build.
It is because of Karen’s presence in my life that I am able to endure my health hardships. She has been by my bedside every moment of the journey. She has lost sleep and gotten up thru all hours of the night to clean up after my sickness or make sure that I am comfortable. During my darkest hours, Karen has ministered the life giving words I needed to make it one more day or sat silently knowing I don’t want words, I just want to know I am not alone. Very, very few people know the difference between those two. Even fewer know exactly which to employ at which time. Karen has never gotten it wrong. She always ministers to me perfectly.
Most important, I think (are any of these more important than the others?), Karen inspires me to have more faith. She has such courage when the going gets tough and her attitude is always such a motivation. Her smiles and hugs in the midst of the storms become the anchor that helps hold me to God.
Next week we will celebrate 15 years of marriage. Some would consider a marriage of 15 years a good start, others would consider it an eternity. I consider it the single greatest blessing in my life, outside of God Himself.
Thank you Karen for loving even me. I am what I am because you are who you are.
wes.
Dear Karin and Wes,
Happy 15th Anniversary…and I wish you many many more.
God bless you both and your sweet family.
Happy anniversary to both of you. We just celebrated 34 years married and it’s always a time to reflect on the years past and to look with anticipation and what the Lord has ahead. God bless you both.
Happy Anniversary!
Marti
Well said. Joyce & I are celebrating 40 this year (yeah, I know, we can’t be that old!), and a lot of what you said about Karen’s influence on your life goes for Joyce’s influence on me too. Happy Anniversary!
This is the same Karen that I grew up with that encouraged me thru may trials. Her grace always made me want to excel and be a better me.
So happy for you both as you celebrate 15 years together…..and praying for another 50 or 60 years, whever may be the plan of our great Lord and Savior.
God Bless you both.
Happy Anniversary! You have paid a great tribute to Karen. I have always thought she was a wonderful strong person. Of course, you know that Grandpa thought she was special, too. She has gone through so much. God has given her the strength. I hope you & Karen have many more aniversaries. Grandpa & I reached 62 yrs. & we were always speaking to each other. Love you 2-Grandma
I am blessed to know the two of you. You inspire me to be a better wife. Thank you for sharing this. Love Theresa
Happy Anniversary, you two – Has it been that long??? Love it when I see you all. Keep up the good thoughts about Karen, Wes. I’m sure she feels the same about you. Whatever He has for you in the future, it will always be best together.
Love you,
Aunt Ruthanne
Oh, and keep trucking, heh heh.
WOW…that’s all I can say! Wishing you a Happy 15th Anniversary!!
It’s great to hear a husband saying such wonderful, yet true things about his wife. Karen is also blessed to have you as her husband. I have often shared with others that your love my sister shows in many different ways, even in the choice you made for your daughter’s name.
Happy Birthday tomorrow Karen and Happy Anniversay to both of you.