How Beautiful

Katie is two weeks away from being Mrs. Jongekrijg! (And it took me about 2 years to remember how to spell that last name :)). Last night we had her bachelorette party and what a fun time it was! We first headed to the Bobarino (aka the Bob) for a meal, and then headed back to Kari’s house for games and presents. We had such a great group too, which consisted of sisters, soon to be sister’s in laws, cousins, friends, and just the pure joy of friendship. I know I sure can’t wait to see Katie walk down that aisle and I KNOW she is that more excited too.

Weddings are beautiful. Marriage is beautiful. The way that God designed marriage is beautiful. The way that divorce creeps into marriage? Not so beautiful. In the past few months it seems I have heard story after story about marriages falling apart. I can’t imagine. I don’t want to put/pass judgement on people who get a divorce b/c I don’t know their situation. I feel it is such a touchy subject too b/c it hits so close to home for so many. At the same time, I’ve seen what it does to families, and it just breaks my heart. I know some people have really absolutely no choice. But then I watch tv and see all these hollywood couples who have had like 5 spouses. WHAT? Are you kidding? What does marriage mean in hollywood? I guess that answer is sometimes obvious, but I can’t help but look at my own life and just think – how could I EVER leave Dan? I know marriage is not always easy. Marriage takes work. But marriage is so beautiful. Every morning I wake up excited b/c I am next to my best friend FOR LIFE. LIFE. For better or for worse. In sickness and in health. I look at my family and see my parents and grandparents stand the tests that marriage brings. They are “survivors.” And it’s beautiful. At the bookstore, anyone who gets an anniversary card for 50+ years, I usually make a comment and say how cool that is b/c it seems divorce is everywhere.

I can’t wait to get to the 50 year mark with Dan (God willing and hopefully MANY MORE!). I see little old couples walking hand in hand, not having to say much, but just look at each other and smile. That makes my heart flutter. Yup, I’m cheesy. But it’s true.

Marriage. It’s beautiful. I can’t wait to see Kate and John join hands in marriage. I can’t wait to see them experience marriage. And we have only GOD to thank for such a beautiful gift!