THANKFUL THURSDAY…thinking about my upcoming anniversary and about beautiful marriages, I always go back to my parents! When my dad passed away, my folks had been married thirty-six years. Like most of us, those years included many wonderful days but there was also more than their share of real trials and difficult days, deep disappointments, sorrows and gut-wrenching heartache; however, Mom and Dad travelled life’s roads together – partners in a very real way.
My mom was very young when they got married – yes, that beauty there is my mom four months before she turned sixteen..and the age when my granddaddy said he would allow her to marry. (Their wedding day was four days after her 16th birthday.) Mom had a very difficult childhood and had her share of – shall I say – “baggage.” My dad loved her in spite of all that…..and she loved him return.
They were committed to one another – and it is that real picture of faithfulness and commitment for which I am thankful today on this Thankful Thursday!
It often seems that our society today is almost commitment-phobic….to anything! Nothing is to last forever and when things are difficult – whether it is a job, a mortgage, a friendship, a promise or a hundred other things – often the easiest answer is to walk away and “cut your losses.” But God expects something different – something more – from His children. I want to be faithful…..to my commitments, to my family and friends, and to my marriage. And, I’m so glad to have an example of that in the marriage of my mom and dad.
I love you, Mom and Dad
What a wonderful tribute to your parents! It is soo true isn't it? No one wants to commit anymore. Especially of course in marriage, but even just in relationships in general. I heard some young women (early 20ish) talking in the hair salon the other day and this is just what they were speaking of. How their friends change practically according to their moods. How sad really. I think of what they are missing. Of course friends do change and come and go according to the seasons in our lives, but sometimes you just need to stick it out with people through the good times and the bad…no one seems to want to be bothered. My very best friend and I have been together since we were just 9 years old. We have traveled through life together and how grateful I am. And yet, there is something to be said for new ones too. Like you! btw, I thought your mom was you at first. You look like her I think. Soo beautiful. Have a good day, HUGS, Debbie
Wouldn't it be nice if everyone had the examples of marriage that we had. My Dad's parents were married over 60 years before my granddad passed away, my Mom's parents over 50 years and my own parents over 40. People don't go into marriage these days understanding that it takes work, love, commitment, understanding, give & take, and so much more. It doesn't just "happen". Thanks for sharing.
What a beautiful tribute to committment! So glad God honors His committments and set the example for us to follow ~ especially in marriage!
You look so much like your mom!!!!!
Beautiful post and photo's! And what a true example of commitment you've been blessed with, especially in comparison to todays standards as couples change partners and split in a blink of an eye! Soo sad!!
BTW….I love the flamingos in the yard behind your mom and dad!! Brings back soo many memories!!
Hugs and Sweet Blessings!
Jackie : ))
What a beautiful post. Hope your trip is all you hope it to be. Congratulations on your anniversary. God is good – blessings on you both.
I want to hear all about your trip when you get back.
Beautiful! Beautiful pictures and a beautiful tribute to your parents.
So sweet of you to check in on my blog.
I think it is neat that Peyton & Tyler are the same age and have red hair! Sometimes I can think and imagine what Peyton might be doing if he were still here and not have tears, but not always. I know I will get there someday. I can smile when I think about what he is doing in heaven 🙂
Thanks again and have a great trip. I am so excited for you!!
You have a great week too
What a gorgeous mom you have! Wow, 16 is young. Beautiful tribute to your parents, Jennifer. LOVE IT.
Very nice. My mother was also 16 when she married my dad. They had a beautiful marriage, and life together. They literally grew up together. Dad died just short of their 50th anniversary. Their example was I am sure what gave me the tools to have the marriage I do today.
Lovely tribute!
Thanks for sharing. The lack of commitment in our society is unreal! If this generation could just grasp hold of what commitment really means what a difference it would make. I too will be celebrating an anniversary next week. Ours is the 16th. 31 years! and looking forward to many more. Have a blast on your trip and we will be looking forward to hearing all about it. Jackie
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A really sweet tribute. It is a wonderful heritage to have parents with enduring marriages. You are blessed!
Hi Jennifer,
Loved your post today and your tribute to your parents.
Beautiful photos too!!
Thank you for sharing your heart touching post. Enjoy your day!
Blessings
My heart is always hurting too. I am struggling to learn how to enjoy life once again instead of just enduring it. I am also a grieving mom.
What a sweet post and tribute to your parents. Marriage today often lacks that committment and it's so sad.
Congratulations on your 25th! I hope you have a wonderful trip to Paris.