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Kyle and I nine years ago |
I knew my husband was kind. What I did not know was that kindness would be shown by small actions: flowers after a hard day, leaving the house at 3 a.m. to get me 7up when I was sick, listening to me pour out my frustrations after a trying day. The way he cares about the seemingly insignificant.
I knew my husband believed in me. I did not know he would be my biggest cheerleader. Encouraging me to dream beyond my capabilities, offering me the use of time and money to pursue things (even when there seems to be no return!). Believing in anything and everything I put my hand to.
I knew my husband was loyal. I did not realize how he would put our relationship above every other. Protecting our privacy, our ability to confide in each other, trusting each other with our most desperate secrets, our deepest longings. Seeing the worst of me, he remains true to our marriage and our vows, covering -- never exposing -- my flaws to others.
I knew my husband loved family. I did not know that he would be our buffer. That he would fight for our family, defend and stand up for us when needed. That he would be the kind of dad who can just as easily throw a football with our boys as he can read a book or dance with our daughters. Our family only looks the way it does today because he was willing to have the hard conversations, willing to ask for what we wanted, even when I was too afraid.
I knew my husband loved God. I did not know his passion for God would continue to grow and change, spurring us on to new adventures, continually willing to reassess and rethink what we believe. Challenging the status quo, and standing for what he believes is right.
And although I know there's nothing listed that would be considered "flashy" or "sexy" by our society's standards (notice I never mention his manly good looks or buff physique :) ), these are the things that I have found most important. The things that have anchored us to one another, even on our worst days. Even when we don't like each other. Even when we fight. We forever remain, united.
What have you come to appreciate or value about your spouse over the years?
Could not miss this, marriage is one of my favorite topics to read (and talk, and write, and think about)! ; ) This was so beautiful, happy anniversary Kendra!
ReplyDeleteThank you Sybil for your kind words! You bless me :)
DeleteThis is sweet and beautiful and honest.
ReplyDeleteHappy Anniversary!
Thanks Laura!
DeleteBeautiful! And, he's not bad looking either. :)
ReplyDeleteHaha! Thanks Nancy! I'll have to tell him you said so :)
DeleteKendra, Thank you for such beautiful words about your husband and your marriage. I've been married almost seventeen years, and many of the things you shared mirror the relationship I have with my husband. When we set our sights on Christ, He creates something beautiful! Keep encouraging!!
ReplyDeleteSo true Jacqui! It makes all the difference to keep Christ as the center of everything! Blessings to you today!
DeleteKendra
ReplyDeleteOh yes -- he is a keeper! You've written a wonderful treasure of a post. Many blessings to you!
I'm so happy we're keeping our friday link ups going : )
Thanks Mimi! I'm glad we're keeping them going as well!
DeleteLovely post, Kendra. Happy Anniversary. (My husband and I have the Song of Solomon verse engraved on our wedding rings. :-) (Visiting from the InCourage writers group)
ReplyDeleteThanks Nikki! I love the engraving on your rings, thanks for stopping by!
ReplyDelete