As an author of Christian historical romance, I love a good love story. Ever since I watched “Old Yeller” as a preschooler and the parents hugged and kissed when reuniting, I became enthralled with the thrill of not just a sweet embrace, but the commitment and love behind that affection.
Through the years, I’ve cried and sighed, watching and/or reading love stories. Some have been tragic, some with happily-ever-afters. All involved commitment to the one true love, through thick and thin, good times and sad. That commitment extended to the next generation born and the next.
As I grew older and made a personal relationship with Christ, I realized that element of commitment comes from God. He loved us so much He sent His Son to die for us. There is no greater love story than that.
The commitment to loved ones is what drew my husband and I to relocate nearly 2,000 miles to be close to our son and his family. Distance causes too much pain, too many lost opportunities.
All of this work was supported by wonderful friends in Iowa who helped us in so many ways. When I had no energy left, our friends sustained us and pitched in, in numerous ways.
Despite the work and aching muscles, we donated many items and trashed others, whittling down our worldly goods into a cubicle and a car-full. At times, we were overcome with exhaustion from it all. At times, we still are.
Like Moses’ trusted friends, Aaron and Hur in Exodus 17:12, our friends helped strengthen us for the daunting task. We will never forget their faithfulness.
Upon arrival, our son and his friend helped us unload. It’s amazing the strength of the young! We are so grateful for everyone’s commitment to us. Commitment based in love.
The love of friends. The love of family. The love that brings a husband home to kiss his wife and be welcomed by her embrace.
This is the core of a love story. The love that carries on to the next generations.
I agree, Rita, and I’m so glad you were able to move closer to your daughters and grandchildren! Thanks so much! I look forward to meeting in person sometime as we are now closer in proximity! Have a blessed day!
I’m still amazed that you whittled everything down to a pod! I don’t know if I could do that! I know we didn’t see each other very often, but I always looked forward to our time together. I will miss not seeing you and am so honored to call you my friend!! You constantly inspire me and others!!
I would do whatever necessary to be closer to my kids and grandkids!!! We feel so blessed and grateful that ours are a couple of hours away. We never know the number of our days. Leaving a legacy of love, grace, honor, integrity, and faith in Jesus to our kids and grandkids is too important!! I commend you and Steve for taking this huge leap of faith!!!! I will miss seeing you, but I am so excited and happy for you and your new adventure!!!! Blessings and love to you, sweet Elaine!!!
We left MUCH behind, Carolyn! But they are replaceable things. 🙂 Carolyn, I enjoyed every single visit with you and will miss our sweet fellowship. Please know you and your husband are always welcome to come see us!! You might consider that, especially in January!!! ((HUGS)) and love!