United as One Flesh

Our marriage has been a journey of two imperfect people growing and maturing while loving and supporting one another and rearing our children. There have been bumps, potholes and reconstruction along the way. There has also been some smooth pavement and beautiful scenic byways and highways as we’ve traveled this marriage journey together.

Before we met, we were both sure that we wanted to be in a marriage that would consist of God and our spouse. Our vows are a covenant unto Him and unto one another. This commitment has been the firm foundation of our relationship. I don’t take for granted the gift God has given me in Walter, nor the commitment I made to them both to live as one flesh.

To live a life of consideration and respect for one another prayer is necessary and it plays a significant role in our oneness. I seek the Lord on behalf of Walter, our marriage and myself, regularly. I know the Lord hears my prayers for he leads me unto submission to Walter. This is not always easy for my head or my heart. Talking to God allows to me to share my thoughts, my cares and my burdens. The times when we disagree or Walter disappoints me, by His grace my heart yields to the Lord that I can walk in peace and be open to conversation and reconciliation with Walter.

Communication is also key to the harmony of our union. Talking, discussing, resolving etc. is a must in our marriage. To maintain regular communication we have incorporated a committed time together every weekday morning that we spend alone to connect. Personally, this has been a blessing. Since I know that we are going to come together each morning, I don’t feel the need to overwhelm Walter with the events as they happen during the day. I am also able pray, discern and then prepare myself to share what’s on my heart with him. This has made our days and especially our evenings more peaceful and pleasant for he and I and for our family.

Last, but certainly not least, Walter and I living as one flesh is nurtured and sustained with intimacy and affection. These are important to us both. We are comforted, affirmed, calmed and soothed by being close. To maintain this closeness, we choose each other to have fun with. We talk to one another, tell inside jokes and laugh with and at each other. We are physical everyday…holding hands, hugging and touching often. We encourage and support each other’s interest. We also have a date, at home, every Thursday evening to nurture and maintain our friendship and our love for one another. During this time we DO NOT focus on conversation about our life, but instead we enjoy a meal together and usually watch a movie, a television show or a sport game. It’s also the one day a week we are sure to go to bed at the same time.

One thing I have learned about living as one with Walter is that it is a choice I must make daily, on purpose with humility. It draws me nearer to God. For I know that it is by His grace, strength and love that we continue along this journey united together as one flesh.