"I didn’t think I was cut out for marriage. I was a journalist, married to my calling and all that went with it – the good, the bad and the ugly. But God mercifully brought a young lady, who fits the biblical description my way, and changed my life for ever and for the best. Thank you, Olufunmilayo Yinyinola Atoke for being God’s gift to me. Happy 30th anniversary, my Treasure."
There is this passage in the last chapter of the biblical book of Proverbs written with a rare breed of women in mind...the breed to which my wife belongs. It reads thus:
“A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds. Her husband trusts her without reserve, and never has reason to regret it. Never spiteful, she treats him generously all her life long. She shops around for the best yarns and cottons, and enjoys knitting and sewing. She's like a trading ship that sails to faraway places and brings back exotic surprises. She's up before dawn, preparing breakfast for her family and organizing her day.
“She looks over a field and buys it, then, with money she's put aside, plants a garden. First thing in the morning, she dresses for work, rolls up her sleeves, eager to get started. She senses the worth of her work, is in no hurry to call it quits for the day.
“She's skilled in the crafts of home and hearth, diligent in homemaking. She's quick to assist anyone in need, reaches out to help the poor. She doesn't worry about her family when it snows; their winter clothes are all mended and ready to wear. She makes her own clothing, and dresses in colorful linens and silks.
“Her husband is greatly respected when he deliberates with the city fathers. She designs gowns and sells them, brings the sweaters she knits to the dress shops. Her clothes are well-made and elegant, and she always faces tomorrow with a smile. When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly. She keeps an eye on everyone in her household, and keeps them all busy and productive. Her children respect and bless her; her husband joins in with words of praise: Many women have done wonderful things, but you've outclassed them all (Proverbs 31:10-30; MSG).
If the Lord tarries, tomorrow (September 5), I shall have been married for 30 years. I didn’t think I was cut out for marriage. I was a journalist, married to my calling and all that went with it – the good, the bad and the ugly. But God mercifully brought a young lady, who fits Proverbs 31's virtuous woman's description my way, and changed my life for ever - and for the best. Thank you, Olufunmilayo Yinyinola Atoke for being God’s gift to me. Happy 30th anniversary, my Treasure.
No comments:
Post a Comment