Will You Be My Valentine?

Growing up, this day was always something that I remember as getting festive candy from mom and dad and giving my friends and family little "love" notes. As I got into my teen years, I still enjoyed sharing notes and giving (and getting) ;-) candy on this day. Finally, as an adult woman I still continued this tradition, even though I didn't technically have a Valentine.

Last year was my first time with my very own Valentine but we spent it a 1,000 miles apart. So, today as I finally spend this Valentine's Day with my dear Hubby I am again reminded of God's faithfulness to me in bringing me a man who is true to God's word, who does not compromise what he believes is right, and who loves me steadfastly and truly. He never gets angry with me, raises his voice, or ignores me. He isn't perfect and has his little quirks and annoyances (as do I, and I am sure I have many more than he does) :-P, but I could never have dreamed up a husband who is more and more like my Knight in Shining Armour. God is the perfect and ultimate matchmaker. I am 100% convinced of that!

I have seen that my life was not empty without Michael, but He has given me Michael to complete His plan in my life. I have had Jesus in my life since I was 7 years old. He is enough for me. It wasn't until I fully relinquished all rights for marriage that God gave me complete peace. I was never what you would consider marriage obsessed, but I still wanted MY way about it. It was one of the hardest things I have ever done saying to God "If you want me to remain single the rest of my life, I will do it and I will serve You." It was two years later that I met my husband. Now, I am not saying that these are some magic words that will bring a husband to you single girls. I said it thinking that it may be what God wanted for me and I believed and lived it. And you know what? I was so very happy to be that way until I met Michael and then I knew (with much prayer mind you) that God had this as the next step in my life.

If I had married Michael because I thought marriage would solve all my problems and fulfill all my needs, I don't think we would be very happy right now. We both know that God brought us together in His timing and in His will. We ARE blissfully happy, though we may be barraged by me not feeling well, Michael being in school and working, bills, etc. God has consistently provided for us and has given us a deeper love and understanding for each other in these last 8 months.

Lest I sound preachy, remember that this is my story. :-) You may very well have already done this. I am not telling you to squelch your desire to be married or giving you a formula for what to do in your life. God works in different ways in different peoples' lives. This is just my life and how He has worked miracles with this little girl who is full of faults. And who says you have to listen to me anyway? ;-) *grin*

So, to my married AND single friends, may this day be a reminder of what Jesus did for us, and may we tell our husbands (or sweethearts, or just some little children who may not have encouragement in their lives) today what they mean to us and how much we love them.

I love you Michael. Happy Valentine's day AND 8 month anniversary. :-D
<3 <3 <3