No, it's not "Jesus is the reason for the season" (although, 'tis true) or, "it's better to give than receive" (because I do love a good present, thanks Nicole). Here it is.... Are you ready for it?
The very best gift you have is the person you've been given for eternity (on this earth).
Ahh... So disappointing, right? WRONG!
The very things that drive me crazy about my husband, the very things that make me (occasionally) roll my eyes are the very things that (if I'm honest) challenge me. His joking helps me take life a little less seriously, which is good not only for my perspective but also for the stomach ulcer I occasionally foster. My husband's task-oriented nature helps me knock out what needs to be done and can be done today, and provides me with the time I need at the end of the day to relax. His budget-minded self sets parameters for my Christmas shopping so that I don't go overboard and am forced to re-mortgage our house, losing life and limb. And, his "the tree looks perfect just the way it is" opinion is always the reassurance I need so that I'm not so perfectionist-minded.
This all stems from the email I got from him today, entitled "Dinner Options" (can I just say "he's good to me"?):
Mare,
The dinner options for tonight are as follows:
Stuffed shells with salad and bread sticks
Beef stroganoff with biscuits and brazed carrots (if you want this take the beef stroganoff out of the frig freezer asap)
chicken stir fry with egg rolls
Love you and try to relax a little. I know you don’t feel good and get stressed but that is exactly why you need to relax. Christmas is a celebration so try to relax and share the LOVE.
Have a good time with Tara and see you tonight. I will hang the lights and garland around the door tonight.
Brian
He's my gift this year. He makes me a better, more likable person. He helps me enjoy the things that need to be enjoyed. He helps me laugh at life and takes over when I need a break. But, most of all, he loves me. Completely and totally, even at my worst moments. And, I know this because the minute I apologize for my worst moments, he gives me the most passionate kisses.
Jesus, reason for the season, thank you for your gift to our world. Thank you that you loved us enough to come when we were still not even wanting you. Thank you for saving us and giving us life abundant. But, also - thank you for giving me my husband. Thank you that you have used him over the last decade to smooth out my rough spots, calm me down, help me to see the joy in life, and show me the things that matter in life. And, thank you for giving him the grace to know how to do all of this effortlessly with kindness and generosity. Thank you for giving me a man I know you're proud of, and for giving me the eyes to be proud of him, too.
Merry Christmas. I've already opened my gift this year.
I love it Mare! You always help to put things in perspective. You, as well, are a gift to all of us who are lucky enough to call you "friend". Take time to breath and enjoy the magic of this wonderful season! xoxo
ReplyDeleteI love this, Mare. Brett has always said that Uncle Fred is the perfect specimen of the man he'd like to be...I only find it 100% appropriate that his sons were made in his likeness. We each have our own story but I heard so much of myself in your writing. Just today I came home, looked at the laundry, dishes, Christmas cards and immediately felt overwhelmed...a feeling that frequents me this time of year. As I stood at the kitchen sink ready to meltdown Brett walked over ever so gently, kissed me on the forehead and squeezed my butt! He knew the kiss would make me feel loved and the other make me laugh and break my tense mood. He requested a revision to his honey do list to make my life a little easier, saying he'd be willing to give something up to hire a maid if that's what it took to assure we had that time every evening to just be cuddled up together...not worrying about when the dryer will go off or the load will need changed. As you know, I share your type A and have often said over the last 8 or so years that God gave me Brett for a reason. To some he may seem a little too laid back or even dare I say a procrastinator but for me he's been the perfect balance. And there have certainly been times when some or most of the people in my life have questioned my judgement but I could always see the man he was capable of being. Relationships of all kinds are full of struggle and strife but standing on top of the hill you just climbed together and seeing how far you've come is simply the sweetest victory. "I love you not only for who you are but for who I am when I am with you" I love you so much and can't wait to celebrate Christmas together. Xoxo
ReplyDeleteShanna, Thank you! I love you and am thankful for you too!
ReplyDeleteLisa - so well put. It's true - the very best gifts are sometimes imperfect (thank God) but are gifts for our eyes only. I know that the man I'm with was created for me; and even on the days that he drives me crazy, I am so thankful for him. The very best gifts in life are the gifts that are truly given with your best interests and desires in mind, and our men are those things to us. Brian is my perfect balance. So thankful!
Love it Mary!! You truly are an awesome woman!! I feel blessed to have you part of my family!! Berta
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