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The Journey from Romance to Real Love:

Celebrating Our 34th Anniversary

Today, we’re not just celebrating any anniversary; we’re commemorating our 34th year of marriage—a testament to love’s endurance. Reflecting on our journey, there was a moment when our bond seemed to wane, not because of what we did but because of what we failed to do for each other.

Amid the chaos of homeschooling our teens, John’s tireless work and ministry involvement, and my fervent writing, our marriage entered a phase where the once vibrant spark seemed to dim. It wasn’t a question of love but of connection. We cared deeply for each other, yet we were missing the mark in nurturing our relationship.

The Reality of Marriage vs. Teen Romance

During one difficult period of our marriage, I realized that married life rarely mirrors the euphoric, all-consuming emotions of teenage romances. Marriage wasn’t about heart flutters and happy feelings, yet I was expecting it to be. 

Confiding in my close circle of writer friends and prayer warriors, I sought guidance and prayer. One night, as I pondered my youthful quests for love, I envisioned Jesus witnessing my adolescent yearnings. I remembered the thrill of dating and the desire to be chosen, yet in my reflection, I sensed a profound sadness from Him. Jesus knew those fleeting highs would ultimately leave me unfulfilled.

In contrast, Jesus had prepared for me a partner who offered more than fleeting excitement—John. This realization was humbling. John embodied dedication, stability, and genuine love, qualities far surpassing the ephemeral charm of teenage romance. I woke the next day with a revitalized love for John and a commitment to enrich our relationship daily.

Our rekindled commitment has not only sustained us but allowed us to welcome seven more children into our home. Our perseverance has been a beacon of hope, illustrating that it’s not the dramatic conflicts but the gradual drifts that pose the greatest threat to marriage. It’s the yearning for transient emotions over the beauty of commitment, dedication, and unconditional love that can erode the foundation of a marriage.

To those navigating through the ebbs and flows of marriage, remember: don’t prematurely concede defeat. Marriage is an endeavor worth every effort. Rather than withdrawing, choose to draw closer, even when vulnerability feels daunting. The promises of “to love, honor, and cherish” are vows I am grateful to have upheld.

As we celebrate our 34th anniversary, I reflect on the trials we’ve overcome, a journey that taught us the true essence of love. It’s a love not defined by the fleeting romance of youth but by the unwavering bond that has fortified over the years. It’s a reminder that the most challenging moments can lead to the most enduring love stories.

Additional Resources

Journal Through the Bible in 2024

Have you ever wanted to read through the Bible but found yourself giving up? Or even worse, you read the chapters and at the end question how they apply to your life. Tricia Goyer understands. For years she felt frustrated that she couldn’t stick to her commitment to read God’s Word all the way through. Things changed when she found a doable plan and wrote out a daily prayer. Tricia’s heart changed. Her life did, too.

God can bring real transformation into your heart and life when you daily commit to reading your Bible and praying through God’s Word. Praying through the Bible in One Year offers a guided reading plan and a daily prayer starter to help you make God’s Word applicable to your life. Discover the inspiration for real-life transformation.

Purchase a copy of Praying Through the Bible in One Year HERE.