As a teen, I dreamed of romance,
Of a handsome, dashing hero
Who would charm me with
Tender words and lavish gifts,
Who would carpet my path with roses.
Years later I met a man, divorced, a single father.
I watched his tender love and devotion for his little daughter.
I saw in him strength of character
And evidence of his faith in Christ.
He won my heart.
He became my husband.
Now for fifteen years we've faced together
Joys, sorrows, pain, and all the varied experiences of life.
With my most recent illness has come the realization
Of how strong is our love, of how wonderful is this man whose wife I am.
As he watches over me,
Serving as nurse, therapist, maid, spiritual counselor,
As I lean on his strength and rest in his love,
I think back to my teen-aged romantic ideals
And I thank God that the reality of the love He gave to me
Is infinitely better than the vanity of my dreams.
In our marriage is true love, purged, tested, proven
By the experience of the life we share.
Such love is truly a gift from God.