twenty-three

I can see two pilgrims treating the highway of life together, hand in hand -- heart linked to heart. True, they have had rivers to ford, mountains to cross, fierce enemies to fight and many dangers to go through. But their Guide was watchful, their Deliverer unfailing, and of them it might truly be said, "In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the Angel of His Presence saved them; in His love and in His pity He redeemed them; and he bare them and carried them all the days of old."
- Susannah Spurgeon (source)

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As of this coming Sunday, the earth will have orbited the sun 23 times since we said "I Do". It's been a lifetime of long days and short years, seasons of plenty and of want. Our life together is etched upon our hands. When we join them, the olive of his skin stands in sharp contrast to the fairness of mine.

We have seen sleepless nights and better mornings. We have witnessed the miracle of birth and the sorrow of death. We have forgiven, and we have loved.

23 years of doubled joy and halved burdens. 23 years of laughter and tears. 23 years spent weaving a cord of three strands. It has been the hardest and most rewarding work I've ever known.

At the wedding altar, I could not have grasped the full meaning of Susannah Spurgeon's words. 23 years of marriage bring with them a deep understanding - and even deeper appreciation - of them.

If the Lord doesn't grant us another 23 years together - if He doesn't allow us another 23 hours together - I will still praise His Name for the faithfulness with which He has attended us and His goodness in giving us to each other.