Wow! I can't believe I've been married to my best friend for 40 years. I can't really imagine life without Michael since in some ways we grew up together...I turned 19 and Michael turned 20 two months before we were married, and we'd gone together for over 3 years before that!
We went to cross town high schools, but met at a restaurant (Kings Food Host) where we were both working. We started dating when I was 16 and he was 17...and here we are 2 children and 6 grandchildren later. Having lived all over the world together, enjoyed a great 22 years in the Army and 15 years of variety since his retirement...our lives have been ones of constant change...the one sure, stable anchor being the LORD.
I know, without a single doubt, that Michael and I would not be together were it not for the LORD. We are two selfish people struggling to love each other but totally unable to do it without Christ's Spirit. We've had a few rough spots, for sure, but God has always been there to hold our hands and get us through those spots.
I'd like to share what I wrote to Michael in the card that I will give him today (when he wakes up):
"40 years ago we began our life together. Who would have imagined where these 40 years have taken us! Through parenthood and grandparenthood, lively house and empty nest. In govenerment quarters, rental houses, single-wide trailers, and beautiful homes. To colorado, Oklahoma, Georgia, Kentucky, Germany, Kansas, New Jersey, Virginia, South and North Carolina and Budapest. The best part of the journey is that we've shared it together. You've always been there at my side sharing the burdens and encouraging me to smile. Before another 40 years come and go, our journey on earth will be over. How sad that would be if we didn't know thatour journey will actually continue on smooth roads of gold! I love you, Michael Purath!"
