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A Marriage Story

They’re frayed with a gash above the hem and pockets that bulge out, those cargo shorts that Stuart was wearing on a day when we were going out.

“Are you going to wear those?”

“Yes.”

“But they're so ratty.”

“OK. I’ll change 'em.”

And he did. He changed into blue shorts with pockets that bulge out.

“Are you going to wear those?”

“Yes. I need to.”

“But there are bleach spots on the front. They’re not very good shape. You have nicer shorts.”

“I know.”

He changed, back into the first pair of shorts, and we went out the door.

Why couldn't he wear one of his better pairs? We’re going to spend all day together. I just love to look at him but, OH, those shorts.

We walked and held hands and the children shed, shed their hats and water bottles and sunglasses. The pockets in the cargo shorts made room for these things as the children dropped them or handed them to their Papa.

We walked. Single file. Mama in back, four goslings in the middle, Papa in front with a little one in his arms and his pockets bulging full of kid stuff.

He did need those shorts. His decent shorts don’t have enough pockets.

Those shorts, frayed with a gash above the hem and pockets that bulge out, he wasn’t thinking about himself when he put them on. The heart that beats under the tattered white shirt (to match the tattered shorts) is one that loves. He dressed to serve us.

And I am ashamed.

Comments

Denise said…
Bless your dear heart, praying for your marriage.
Alida Sharp said…
what a great way to look at what your husband did for the kids... thanks so much for sharing this story!

May God bless you and your husband this coming week!
Thank you for sharing this beautiful story. May God bless you and your husband this week.
Kathy said…
Excellent! Great insights skillfully presented. And a great reminder to see our husbands, not through our expectations, but truly see them - their dedication and desire to serve their family. Thanks!
Melissa said…
Kate,

I love your writing. What a beautiful story, and a way to see God in even the smallest of things. I love how you see Him in the every day & make the typical seem so...not.

Blessings, my new bloggy friend!
God's girl said…
I love you are doing this challenge as well! What a neat story. THe very heart of the Father was displayed in "Stuart." You encourage me more than I can ever express!
Much love,
Angela
Christi said…
This post is a great reminder for me. You have such a wonderful way with words! So often I don't think of the whole picture!

Praying that the Lord continues to bless your marriage!
ocean mommy said…
This was good, straight from your heart and completely honest. Like Melissa said, it was beautiful.

steph.
That was a beautiful post Thanks so much it refreshed me. You are so right there is always the whole picture. May the Lord bless your marriage this week and always.

In his endless love,

Angel ( Angel Mama ) ():)
Mary@notbefore7 said…
Nice to "meet" you tonight! what a beautiful post. I am often trying to get my husband to "dress better" for me, but that big picture that includes the wonderful man and father that he is, needs to be seen.

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