"For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh."
Genesis 2:24 (NIV)
Dearest Rob,
Seventeen years ago next month, you and I had our first date at a minor league baseball game. We spent the entire game talking and not watching the game at all. As we left the ball game, you dared to ask a question about the state of my spiritual life (which was seriously in the pits at the time). I was completely taken aback and seriously offended. I remember thinking, If you think this is the way to win my heart, you are totally mistaken, buddy! But something in your eyes made me realize that the question came from a heart that really wanted to know and encourage me in that area, not judge me. Your boldness in asking made me willing to ponder the question and not angrily dismiss it.
You never played mind games with me. I had become an expert at those in other relationships and had experienced a tremendous amount of hurt as a result. I knew very early on that if I said yes to a relationship with you, I may as well pick out the wedding dress. You did not believe in not being honest with me about the depth of your feelings. In fact, I don't think you knew how to hide them from me. That scared me to death and secretly thrilled me.
You told me before we got married that there were going to be very few times that you would say no to me. That has certainly been true. What you didn't tell me was that when you did say no, no amount of pleading, crying, cajoling, or coyness on my part would get you to change your mind. You are the most stubborn and determined man I have ever met. Your confidence is at once maddening and a safe haven for me.
Sixteen years have come and gone since I met you at the end of the church aisle one beautiful spring day in June. We have gone from being apartment-dwelling DINKS (double-income, no kids) to mortgage holding parents of three beautiful children. I can't imagine doing life without you. You are the only one for me.
Ohndah, I want to tell you today that I feel like the most blessed woman on earth to belong to such a man as you. Thank you for your loyalty, your support, and your love which has allowed me to grow and live out my God-given purpose. Thank you for believing in me and my dreams. You make me feel cherished. I am so thankful I get to be your wife. We are truly one flesh.
All my love,
me
