Marriage: It's a good thing.

My Chris and I will be married - this December 28, 2016 - for 25 years.  That sounds like something a parent, a real adult, someone other than me would say!  Yikes!  Yet, here I am.  All grown-up and getting ready to (if I were truly operating in the full gifting of my Oklahoma roots I would say fixin' to) celebrate a milestone with my man.  Wow.

So it's funny, ironic, insightful, and reflection worthy to note that right now he and I are taking a young couple through marital counseling before they tie the knot, break the glass, get hitched, strap on the ball and chain this coming summer.

Now, to me, marriage is the single-most event in my life that has shaped who I have become.  Hairstyles - they've come and gone.  Diets - yep, they came and went.  Friends - come and gone, too.  But, this man, My Chris, this human I said "Yes" to and entered into wedded bliss with ... This man has weathered the storm, huddled under the umbrella, fastened down the hatch, and traveled the most interesting journey alongside me.  I've been an Elledge longer than I was my maiden name (which is Poe ... Which is funny because Po in German means butt ... And so I just have to laugh when I type it).  And - despite what the media says, what Public opinion polls say, what films say, what other married couples say, marriage has only gotten better.  In fact, I love this guy!  I've learned that loving doesn't always mean liking.  I've learned that loving always means sacrifice.  I've learned that loving always means learning.  I've learned that loving will usually always mean change.  I've learned that the worst in me will always be seen.  I've learned the best in me will always be brought out.  I've learned that - together - we are really, really good.

As I walk this brand new journey with the young about-to-be-bride that sits across a cafe table from me, I have to smile on the inside.  She represents me.  She has NO IDEA what she is getting into!  And yet, she will never be the same.  Marriage does that.

When that man of mine and I stood at the alter with mushroom hair and big earrings to the right and mullet hair and big glasses resembling protective eye goggles on the right, we were inviting the God of the universe to stand between us and make this marriage what He wanted it to be.  I can't imagine a better life.  Hard?  Yep.  Safe?  Nope.  Good?  Always.

Marriage:  it's a good thing,
Christina