7 Things We Learned in 7 Years of Marriage
It’s our anniversary. Here are 7 things we’ve learned in the first 7 years of marriage.
Fifth Thing:
One evening, Tim decided do a painting. After he was finished, he had some colours left over on the palette. On a whim, he challenged me, “How about you do a painting using only my leftover paints?” I looked at what was there: a glob of pale yellow, some dark blue, a tiny bit of brown and a smidgen of green. I hadn’t been challenged like this before. I looked at him, my competitive nature compelling me on, “Challenge accepted!”
I stared at the blank piece of paper and wondered what I’d gotten myself into. What should I paint? I decided to go with a nature scene inspired by the ocean view we had while on vacation. It took me about 15 minutes before I ran out of paint.
When I finished, I was astonished at what I had produced. “You certainly are a painter,” said Tim with a huge grin when I showed him. I felt proud of my abilities with renewed confidence in my gifts. Creating this piece sparked a passion and joy in painting, I hadn’t felt in years. I was excited to create more.
As I reflected on the experience, I realized that Tim was able to challenge me and call out my talent because he knows me so well. After being married to me for seven years, he has a sense of what I am capable of, even when I’ve lost sight of it. And because I trust him, I can respond to his challenge.
Part of marriage is continually calling out the best in each other.
1st thing: Appreciation Strengthens Marriage
2nd thing: Margin Helps Our Marriage
3rd thing: As Strong as the Weakest
4th thing: Children Add Strain to Marriage
6th thing: Waiting Together, the Hard Times
7th thing: Rich Traditions