Tuesday, October 27, 2009

I Have 13 Minutes

The title of this post means nothing except that it is the amount of time I have to finish before I attempt to get my work out on. I am known for some good things (yes, this is up for debate), but not known for writing (no debate there). Which is odd since this is a blog and most people who have a blog write better than the average. I like to consider myself a writer for the below average out there who are doing battle with those haters constantly correcting our spellig and grammer (I know that bugs you but you can't change it because this is my blog...HA!).

My wife always tells me that if for my posts to mean anything to anyone, I must have something to say that's worth reading. If that were the case I should just turn this computer off. I agree with her, but I continue to post to see if I can actually have more than four followers so that one day I might prove her wrong (probably not).

I wanted to share this video that I came across from Overlake Christian Church in Washington. The point of sharing is mostly for laughs, but the message is nothing but the truth. Just thought I would share. Enjoy!

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

9 Years Ago

It was 9 years ago when I saw my beautiful bride walking down the aisle and to this day have continued to walk through this life with her. We've had ups and downs, good times and sad times, but the bond between us has been the strength that keeps us united.

It doesn't seem like 9 years is a very long time, but in a society that sees commitment as conditional, it actually is a long time. Have you ever heard of the "seven year itch"? I hadn't heard it in this context prior to some research. I was reading some statistics on marriage and divorce (I teach at a marriage retreat) and the numbers indicate that it should actually be called a "four year itch" since the divorce rate is at its peak during the fourth year. After the fourth it progressively reduces seeing a significant decrease between years nine and ten.

Considering that these statistics play no role in whether or not someone gets divorce, it helps shed light on issues unresolved or reoccurring disputes between couples. It seems that it's during those first few years, when you're really getting to know this "stranger" you called "friend" a lot better. The first year or two seem like bliss and all the things that are annoying, you seem to dismiss. But come year three and four and having not worked on resolving any of those issues, you are now at each others throat and wanting to part ways. It's really sad to me because it only highlights the importance of healthy communication in marriage (which can be learned). It's pivotal in sustaining and strengthening the marriage and aids in the maturation of couple.

I have no real reason for posting this today other than to say statistics do not dictate the health of a marriage, but they do explain why so many fizzle. I believe much of it has to do with our conditions as oppose to the conditions God places on the marriage. I also believe that we as a society no longer understand what it means to be committed to something. Our yes only means yes until we "feel" otherwise. There is always a condition. It's these conditions we feel entitled to and deserve. Maybe because of our freedom, maybe because of our so called rights, maybe because we've completely twisted the purpose. I really don't know, but what I do know is that 9 years is another number that I celebrate. I don't celebrate the longevity, but it's quality, it's health, and it's commitment to unity. And I believe that to be the reason we married in the first place. Happy Anniversary Buddy (my wife)! I love you!