Backstory
It makes me so happy to share this story with you. I think you will hear the joy in my voice when you listen. My dear friend Joan was the catalyst for a life-changing decision. I am so grateful to her for speaking up. But you’ll find out for yourself.
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A Friend’s Advice – #640
In a recent story, I told how my friend Joan had encouraged me to let Bill put a ring on it. I was hesitant and she pointed out that time was passing and each day was one we could have enjoyed as husband and wife. She said, “You don’t want to run out of time!”
She was right, so I said to Bill, “About getting married, you want to do it now?” Like in time travelers, we were suddenly signing papers at the courthouse.
I called Joan and said, “On Friday, are you willing to drop everything and come be a witness at our wedding?”
She agreed in half a second. So I got three other dear friends and there we were in front of an officiant, in the presence of God, saying our home made vows.
Bill was asked, “Do you take Annette . . .” and he responded with a really fast “yes,” before hearing the rest of the question. He was oh so ready to be a husband.
It was joyous, it was simple, it was fast and it was meant to be. Our home is full of love and each day is precious. And it happened because my friend Joan took the initiative to encourage us to see what was right before our eyes.
We should all be thankful for friends whose advice and guidance help us make better decisions in life.
P.S.
We are now two years into this new married relationship. Joan was so right. It does indeed make a difference. It feels solid and firm; like it’s real, rather than just playing house. Whatever the future holds, we are there for each other. Trust, respect and love abound. So much deeper, now that it involves the commitment of a husband to his wife and the wife to him.
[Show #640]
Annette,
I’ve been reading an old book that can be thought of as instructions for a full and meaningful life. It suggests that it is better to give than to receive. Most think of this in a material sense but it also applies to gifts of the spirit. Each act that is truly selfless brings the giver unmeasurable rewards. Say hello to Bill for me, I can understand your (plural) joy.
Beautiful message, George. Thank you. One of my other stories is about sending thanks a second time, long after receiving a favorite gift. Like – “I’ve been wearing the robe you sent for three years now and think of you every time I put it on.” Another story suggests giving thanks for a gift of the spirit, as you described it – something someone taught you or conveyed through example; something kind. Yep, you have the spirit, George.
We are SO happy for you and Bill….you did the right thing….he is so in love with you as HIS wife!!!!!💓💓💓💓
One of life’s better decisions, Cathie.