We have all heard the phrase "in sickness and health." When a couple vows to be with each other in sickness and health, I am almost positive that neither one of them thinks that there will be sickness. Who wants to think of that on your wedding day? The reality is that it happens and it happened to my parents.
A few years back, my mother was diagnosed with a liver disease that caused cirrhosis of the liver. As you can imagine, this was devastating to our entire family and circle of friends. Today, on their anniversary, I can't help but be thankful that my parents have faced sickness and health. Through it they have stayed committed to the vows they made 37 years ago. What a commitment. My heart overflows with pride. I am sure that my father never knew that he would have to stake out (literally) in a doctor's office to finally get some answers about my mother's disease. I am sure my father didn't know that he would be the one responsible for taking her to her appointments at the liver institute. I am sure my father didn't know that he would have to hold my mother and remind her of the Lord's faithfulness as she not only dealt with the physical aspect of the disease, but also the mental torment of the unknown. I am sure that my father didn't know that he would have to be the strong one when he felt like his own world was crumbling, BUT HE DID IT. Why did he do it? Because he loves his wife, the mother of his children, and NONNY to his grandchildren. He is a MAN of GOD and understands the value of a marriage.
My mother also has stayed committed to her vow of sickness and health. My father has had four major surgeries. Both of his knees have been replaced and he has had surgery on both of his shoulders. WHEW! That is a lot surgeries that I am sure my mother didn't anticipate on her wedding day. I am sure my mother didn't know that she would be the sole care giver for 4-6 weeks after each surgery. I am sure that she didn't know that she would have to drive him everywhere because he couldn't drive. I am sure she didn't know that she would have to help take over some of his duties at the church. I am sure she didn't know that she would have to listen to his frustration because he couldn't pastor his congregation like he has always done, BUT SHE DID IT! Why did she do it? Because she loves her husband, the father of her children, and POPPY to her grandchildren. She is a WOMAN of GOD and understands the value of a marriage.
I am SO thankful that my parents have remained faithful to the vows made so long ago...IN SICKNESS AND HEALTH. What an awesome example for their children and grandchildren to see!
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! WE LOVE YOU!
