The Measure of A Man

Looking back over nearly 50 years of marriage, I can confidently speak to the quality of the character of the man I married at age 17. To realize at such a young age what constituted the fidelity and love that this man has given me all these years was not in my thinking at that time. For one so young to have to grow up so quickly took a mighty strong character. This man had exhibited maturity beyond his years during the time we were both growing up. He held his first child at the age of 19. She quickly won his heart and they were bonded as father and daughter. The more the responsibilities increased the harder he worked to provide for his growing family. I do not recall a time when he bemoaned his lost youth and the freedoms so many of his peers had as young adults. He took responsibility for his decisions and as his father commented on our elopement many years ago, "you've made your bed, now sleep in it". Sounds a little harsh, but that's exactly what he did. As the years and decades passed 3 other children were born and raised by a hard working Dad who loved and provided for each one. Before the 4th child was born, a wonderful thing happened to this already wonderful man. He was introduced to Christ as his Lord and Savior. From that point forward his life began to take on a new focus. To know God and to live a life that was God centered. The Bible became the source of instruction on becoming a man after God's own heart. God has been true to His word to complete what He has started in a person's life. As the measure of integrity in his heart began to grow so did an amazing transformation. Integrity that was there all along began to mature and exhibit qualities of what God desired in a husband and father. God is not slow about his promises. Even though spiritual growth seems to take forever God does accomplish His purposes in our lives over time. The youthful energy has now slowed somewhat but the desire to serve God has increased. This man will leave a legacy to his children and grandchildren of stability, faith, consistency, hard work and a servant's heart. He has been most faithful to me and will always be the love of my life and my friend.