On Marriage

Ginny and I have been married 40 years today. It has been quite a journey together so far. When we made our commitment, we were agreed on a life of cross-cultural mission together, but we could no have imagined all that would mean. It certainly was not the easiest path we could have chosen, but we are left with so many great memories. I am grateful for a wife who was willing to leave the comforts of home for a life of pilgrimage, including years spent in one of the remotest corners of the world, in Kalinga. Those years were not easy but we look back on them with a lot of nostalgia. Those years taught us something of what our Lord meant when he talked to his followers about leaving mother and father but receiving much more in return. The Kalinga people adopted us and gave us new family which have added much joy to our journey. Some people questioned our decision to raise our children in such a far off place, but we see that growing up in the Philippines was a wonderful experience for them too - no regrets there.We are blessed in our years together to have been given opportunity to do work that is enjoyable and meaningful. We have added many cherished friendships that have added joy and companionship along the way. We are blessed to have been part of a larger family where marriage is valued and to participate in a faith community that has helped foster the values of faithfulness, hope and love which have provided a sure path for our journey together. When we looked with love and wonder into each others eyes and promised to be faithful to each other, we could not have imagined what even 40 years would bring. They have been good years and reflecting back we are renewed in our resolve to see the journey through for as many more years as God gives us. Thanks for being my faithful and loving companion Ginny. I love you.