Twenty years ago, in Corpus Christi, TX, a young woman - just 22 years old - walked down the aisle on the arm of her beloved Dad. At the front of the little church on the Naval base, a young man - just 24 years old - waited for her. He was dressed in choker whites that had only a single, gold bar on the shoulder.
It was a small ceremony - just close family and a few friends who were in the area. The music played, and the minister said those old, old words over them, and the young man and woman pledged their lives to each other.
Dearly Beloved, we are gathered together here in the sign of God - and in the face of this company - to join together this man and this woman in holy matrimony, which is commended to be honorable among all men; and therefore is not by any to be entered into unadvisedly or lightly - but reverently, discreetly, advisedly and solemnly. Into this holy estate these two persons present now come to be joined. If any person can show just cause why they may not be joined together - let them speak now or forever hold their peace.K, do you take D to be your wedded husband to live together in marriage. Do you promise to love, comfort, honor and keep him, For better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. And forsaking all others, be faithful only to him so long as you both shall live?
I will. And so began my married life to this wonderful young man.
Now it's twenty years later, and I still look back on that day with joy. I am still married to this young man. Oh, we've changed, of course - a little greyer, a bit heavier, a little wiser - but when I look at him, I still see that young Navy Ensign waiting for me at the front of the church.
Father in Heaven, thank You so much for giving this man to me. Thank You for his love and care of me. Thank You for all the rich blessings You keep showering upon us. Thank You for our beloved daughter, who is such an amazing mix of the two of us. Thank You for keeping us together through all of life's trials and tribulations, in uncertainty and joy, in travels and at home. Thank You, thank You, for this brave and honorable man!
Honey, thank you for being such a fantastic husband. I love you more now than I did twenty years ago, and I'm looking forward to at least another forty more. You are my hero, my lover, my friend, and my joy. You are the best possible man for me, and I am astounded and greatful for the way you compliment me and provide strentgh to my weakness and calm to my storm. There is no one in the world I would rather have to sleep by, to cook for, to raise a child with, to live with until death do us part - than you.
I love you, Beloved. Happy Anniversary!
Kat,
Congrats to you and your D. May y'all have many, many more years to share!
Posted by: David | July 19, 2006 at 06:26 PM
Congrats to you and David. May God continue to shower you with His Heavenly Blessings each and every day. I hope to meet you two soon. Lot of love, Red Queen
Posted by: Red Queen | July 19, 2006 at 07:27 PM
I'm a few days late, but please accept my congratulations. Twenty years is a milestone. My husband and I just celebrated our 34th.
Posted by: Always On Watch | July 21, 2006 at 09:35 AM