Marriage

It's been almost 23 years ago since this picture was taken.  Looking back, I cringe at how unprepared I was for what was in store.  No one prepared me for how challenging the road of marriage would be.  To be honest I don't know that I would have listened.  There may be plenty of people out there that have fairy tale marriages, but mine was not one of them.  So here is my advice to those starting out on that adventurous journey of marriage.  Stay married.  Understandably there are those that need to leave or are left without the choice because a spouse has left.  I speak to those that have thoughts of, "I didn't sign up for this.", "I am so unhappy."  "I hate him." "I'm so lonely."  When these thoughts creep in because of discord, bitterness and anger, it's tempting to throw in the towel.  If you've had a goal to hike to a peak, you'll know that the path can at times be daunting.  Sure there are some scenic trails, but towards the peak it tends to get rocky, you're tired, and at times you're not sure if it's really even worth it (you lose sight of the goal).  But if you give up, you miss the best part.  It's that view that you can't get from the bottom or even the middle.  Pictures can't evoke the emotions of fulfillment and joy you get when you see the view from the top for yourself.  (I'm not at the top yet!)  What I have learned so far is that I'm married to an incredible person.  A person who happens to be loved by my Heavenly Father also.  Yes there were times that I wondered, "How much do I love this person?"  Yet a loving Heavenly Father reminds me that He loves him, and He softened my heart when it became hard, or bitter.  So yes, stay married, don't give up!