On to 21

Who has the recipe for a long and happy marriage?

God has it, but He may be the only one who has it.

I don’t have it, even though I am greatly blessed and highly favored.

I can’t take credit for something beyond my understanding.

During my single years, I’d lost hope.

A few dates here and there.

Brief relationships that were…brief.

Then, I saw a dating profile for someone thousands of miles away.

The end result is proof that logic and the path to love can be mutually exclusive.

I know how it is to be me, but I’ll never understand how it is to be in a relationship with me.

I can make some educated guesses.

It can be frustrating.

It can be aggravating.

Some days, she must wonder whether to place me directly on the curb, or to stuff me in the rolling dumpster.

If long suffering had a name, I know what it would be.

Yet, she perseveres.

She loves me well, even when I’m not lovable.

She cares for me, even when it’s hard.

She has nursed me back to health.

She calms me down.

She allays my fears.

My cup runs over because God made her to anoint my head with oil.

She’s loving.

She’s compassionate.

She’s beautiful.

She’s intelligent.

She’s uproariously funny.

She’s a comforter.

She’s a problem solver.

She tries to see the best in everyone and in every situation, a gene that either missed me or is continually blocked by rampant cynicism.

She’s absolutely, positively wonderful.

I’m thankful for her every day, but today, on our 21^st wedding anniversary, I’m particularly thankful.

Sweetheart, thanks for 21 wonderful years.

Thanks for being the best part of me.