I'd dare to call it the 8th wonder of the world--this four letter word that is talked about and written about in more books, movie, and loves songs more than nearly every other word, except one big three letter word.
Recently, I had the pleasure of seeing one of my closest friends get married, and the honor of standing by her side as she pledged her love to her betrothed. While celebrating that beautiful 4th of July weekend with her and a loving consortium of family and friends, flown in from around the world, I began to ponder marriage, and what makes a strong marriage. How do two become one and stay one forever?
As I look around at the high divorce rates in the U.S., I know that
being in love
just isn't enough. Romantic feelings ebb and flow, like the tide; While indicative, they can't be relied upon.
Is
choosing to love
one another the key? (Choosing to give, when you're tired of giving, being kind when you want to be curt, being selfless in your service?) Is a successful marriage dependent on both partners living out this choice?
Some folks would argue that our ability to love unselfishly is a result of the
agape
(unconditional)
love
that God displays towards us, and that a strong marriage is built on this.
As someone who is still single and naturally a marriage expert, I believe that the mundaneness of marriage can be infused with marriage's magic when all three are in place.
Ebony and Dedric,
I wish you a wonderful life together. May you always be in love, choose love, and love God's way. And may your love for one another be eclipsed only by your love for GOD.
Love,
Chante