Tuesday, February 17, 2009

A Long Overdue Outward Expression


Sometimes it is important to make an outward expression of gratitude. Just like a testimony of the gospel, we must bear it frequently, out loud, so that we can show our appreciation to our Father in Heaven for our blessings, to help nourish our faith and to hopefully help others to realize their own testimony through the spirit that bears witness.
In this case, I am talking about the blessing of a husband that is the center of my universe. This is one of those times that I feel the great need to make an outward expression of thanks. Despite my pride that swells even as I write this, I realize that overcoming such weaknesses requires serious commitment and effort if we are to progress.

Is there a better man in the world? He has always treated me as his queen and never fails to worship me. He is always full of compliments and patience. I have never met a more thoughtful, forgiving man that is so willing to forget my faults and derogatory comments and focus on my talents. I wish I could say I was anywhere near his level of maturity but I struggle with things he has complete control over. He is generous when he gives and although forgetful, happy to make amends when he knows he has dropped the ball. Always the center of attention, I never want for laughter or entertainment and I have come to rely on those things as my shield. He is so much stronger than I and with that comes security and comfort. I once considered myself a confident, strong woman but have become quite humble and comfortable in his shadow. I like that he carries us through life and I am happy to be by his side.

He relishes in my accomplishments, finds delight in my happiness and never uses jealousy as a tool. I think it is natural to feel undeserving in any relationship but lately I have felt that ten fold; hence the reason for this outward expression. It is the first step at paying him back for his love, support and honesty. I suffer from pride in a big way and that weakness holds me back from becoming truly committed to our relationship at times. I work on it every day but it seems that it will be a lifetime of effort on my part.

He, being the youngest of 4 and I the oldest of 7 and sometimes I wonder how we even got together at all since I seem to try so dang hard to disagree with everything he does and says. I have my faults but after almost 10 years together, I have a firm belief that opposites attract. We may not like any of the same things, but we have a deep respect for each other and that is ultimately what counts.

Rob, thank you for being my everything when I fall short. Thank you for loving me UNCONDITIONALLY and for making sure that I know that we are in this for the long run. No matter the struggles, we will never back down from the opportunity to grow from them. Be patient with me and I will promise to be patient when you don’t take the trash out for three days.

I love you endlessly and am so grateful for the important bond that we have. I know our marriage will last and that is where I find my comfort in a world of uncertainty. My time with you is more important than all the riches in the world. I love you with everything I possess.

Me

2 comments:

Lynn Atwood said...

Bless you Rachel for bearing your testimony and honoring your marriage commitment. Your words are beautiful.

Wendy said...

Beautifully said!