Last night was a meeting about the upcoming Day for Marriage next February. One person emailed that she was weary after a long day of kids and work. But she came anyway. The host offered her a glass of merlot and she accepted with a smile. It was a cold night outside and as we shed coats we seemed to shed our reluctance as well.
We started with check ins and brags about our partners, even the ones not present to hear. We laughed, and I felt touched by the stories of simple gratitude. One wife appreciated her husband stepping up when her job demands increased. One wife was exuberant about how her husband replaced her key fob battery as soon as she mentioned it. After an efficient hour discussing workshops, publicity, childcare and displays we bundled up to go home.
I am feeling the pull to decorate the spruce in my living room. Tins of ornaments collected over the years wait for me in the basement, and I would rather arrange them on fragrant branches than go meet with a couple we are mentoring. But I said I would, so I will. My head knows that the conversation will be enjoyable, and I will get a chance to hold their baby. But it still takes a tug to leave my living room.
Carving time out to work on marriage requires effort. There are days when it is less than convenient. But if I wait for an opportune moment the chance will seep through my fingers like water.
I show up because I said I would.
