For My Beloved

For all of you who faithfully read this, it's really for my wife. Those of you who know her will resonate with my testimony of her life. For those of you who don't, you can read about her here: http://thebishopsjiggymusings.blogspot.com/2005/11/amazing-woman.html

Caryn,
The last 10 years have been amazing. As you are fond of saying, "It seems so much longer!" In many ways, it seems that we've known each other forever. But there's also a newness to every day with you. God has blessed me through you; your encouraging words, your support, and your "never die, never surrender" zeal for life. Much has changed over these 10 years, but I see in your eyes what I've seen all along, what your dad told me about the day that I asked if we could date: you are a godly woman who makes wise choices and brings honor to those you love. I remeber that day in your front yard when I asked your dad if I could pursue a relationship with you. As he laid down the rail road tie he was carrying by himself, he said, "She's always been a good judge of character. If you're good enough for her, I've got no problem with it." I could not have imagined a greater life together. I know that we will never be rich, or have the things that make life easy, but you have made life good. The life of a pastor's wife is seldom easy, but you've handled it with grace and strength. In spite of some of the hardships we've faced, you've been a constant example of faithfulness and encouragement. There aren't words to express what you've grown to mean to me, and I'm grateful for that. If words could describe it, it wouldn't be what it is. So, on this, our 12th Valentine's Day, I want you to know that I love you from the depths of my being, and look forward to the rest of our lives together.
All my love,
J