We celebrated our 40th anniversary with 12 months of anniversary trips. Who knew that this trip to the 1,000 Islands almost didn't happen. Every day we thank God for our marriage.
When I asked Dan what he wanted for our 40th anniversary, he answered, "Forty more years with you." I cried. This is the man I adore and who adores me more. To think, I almost threw him away 30 years earlier when our marriage hit the wall.
Bam! My heart was beating but I didn't feel alive. There was no energy left for one more try at happiness. The wall was too tall and too thick. I sat on the floor and sobbed.
This was the worst and the best day of our marriage. We didn't have an argument. There was no fight. I just couldn't cope any longer. Marriage was difficult and I wasn't strong enough to surmount so many mountains.
In desperation I stood at my kitchen window, tears streaming down my face, crying out to God. Dear Jesus, I can't do this any more. I surrender my life and my marriage to you, Jesus Christ. Do with it whatever You please.
Wow! He pleased to do a lot. Love flooded my heart. Love for my Savior Jesus Christ and love for my husband Dan. Stress, fear, sadness, bitterness, anxiety flew out that kitchen window and peace, calm, joy, happiness, rest filled my soul. My nightmare was over.
Looking back, I realize I expected Dan to satisfy needs that only Jesus Christ can fill. That day I realized that my happiness and fulfillment did not come from Dan or my children or our material goods. Happiness comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Have you hit the wall? Jesus can help you. He invites all who are weak and heavy laden to come to Him and He will give you rest. Please know when you hit the wall, there is One Whose hand is reaching for yours and He will help you climb to the top and stand in victory! I know because He did it for us.
My heart hurts for hurting marriages. That's why I wrote We All Married Idiots: Three Things You Will Never Change About Your Marriage and Ten Things You Can. Praying our marriage story encourages you to keep running through those difficult days when you hit the wall.
May your marriage enjoy 40 years + of splashes of serenity!
