Longer Than...

Twenty-nine years ago today I became Mrs. Ronald V. Burns, Jr.  It was one of the most frightening yet calming days of my life. It was a day filled with love, laughter, and tears. At twenty years old I left the safety of my Mom and Dad who had taken care of me, provided for me, loved and protected me for all my life and entered into a world of the unknown.  Would Ronald be able to take care of me the way my Daddy did? Would he be able to provide for my every need like my Daddy did?  Would he protect me like my Daddy did...for the rest of my life???

As a little girl I saw what a husband & wife relationship was supposed to look like. I can remember my Momma and Daddy dancing in the kitchen, I can still see Daddy reaching out his hand as Momma passed by his chair, just to touch her. I can remember stolen kisses here and there. My Daddy held Momma's hand, told her she was beautiful, and treated her like a queen.  But, I also remember not so happy times - hearing them argue and disagree. Somehow, someway things always got better. They have now been married for fifty-two years, and I still see and hear these things! I am blessed to have parents who taught me through their actions, not just their words.

So what is the secret? 
My parents allowed God to connect the dots!!! I love my Daddy very much, but why did I feel safe, loved, provided for and protected?  Because my earthly Daddy knew where to go to find strength, energy, patience, and understanding.  My parents allowed God to connect the dots of their lives, which in turn showed me how to let God do the same for me.

When the time came for me to step out of the comfort of my home and into a new life with my husband, I knew it was going to take more strength, energy, patience and understanding than Ronald or I had to give - so we've tried very hard to keep the pen in God's hands.  It isn't always easy, and occasionally we take it and try things our way, but God is always there very willing and ready to take it back and make something beautiful of our mess.

So, I ask you to think about who holds the pen in your relationships?  Whether it is your marriage, friendships, children, or co-workers, are you experiencing smooth sailing or rough waters?  Maybe it's time to give the pen back and let the Creator take over.

So, to answer the earlier question... YES!!! My Heavenly Daddy has blessed me with a husband, who like my earthly Daddy, has loved, provided and protected me for the past twenty-nine years and I'm sure he will continue "until death we do part."

"Longer than there've been fishes in the ocean
Higher than any bird ever flew
Longer than there've been stars up in the heavens
I've been in love with you."

To my best friend... Happy Anniversary!

I love you...p