When I started to write this post, the word that came to mind was, “tenacity.” Somehow it didn’t seem right, certainly not romantic. So, I went to my trusty thesaurus (thesaurus.com -it IS 2019 after all.) The words that came up made me smile.

Steadfastness.
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.”

Perseverance.
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”

Persistence.
“For the righteous falls seven times and rises again, but the wicked stumble in times of calamity.”

So why these words? Susan and I have been through our share of storms, and then some perhaps… Literally and figuratively. Earthquakes, devastating house fires, Marital conflicts, You name it, we’ve survived it. The truth is, I would rather have Susan by my side through any battle than anyone. She has given me strength by reminding me of where my strength comes from. She has given me courage by believing in me. And although we have been knocked down, we have risen again, stronger than before.

At the very end of the tenacity synonyms that came courtesy of Roget, was the term “what it takes.” I like that one best. We are celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary this weekend and it’s because we “have what it takes.” If you ask me what that is and how you can have it, I will tell that it starts with faith in Jesus Christ. I will tell you that you have to be willing to have the courage to never give up. And I would tell you to pray that you’re as lucky, blessed and fortunate as a boy named Ken was, 30 years ago, to find a girl like Susan.