I went to a memorial service last night for one of my high school youth group leaders. I was impressed by how much her family and friends absolutely adored her, and by how faithful she was to her Heavenly Father even in the midst of cancer and ultimately death. I was also impressed by how faithful her husband and children were to her during the past two years as she struggled with her illness. Her husband of 35 years stood by her side through it all, loving, supporting and encouraging.
To be known, loved and cared for are basic human needs.
As I talked with a couple friends on the drive from the memorial service, the subject of marriage came up, and my friend asked me when and if I would ever consider dating and remarriage. We had just witnessed how good a marriage can be in the lives of these old friends, and she just wants the same for me.
I have to admit that at times it would be nice to have a partner in crime. This week was trying in the life of our family and it is very lonely to parent through tough situations with your kids without someone standing beside you walking that painful path right along there with you.
As I considered the events of the weekend on my drive back to Modesto I realized a couple things. First, I have great friends. I mean some of the greatest in the world. My friends have been there for me in a huge way over the last few years, loving, supporting and encouraging me every step of the way. Second, I have been having so much fun. There are moments when things are lonely, but for the most part my life is filled with so much joy and peace that I really have nothing to complain about.
I didn't know how to answer my friend when she asked me about dating and marriage. For now since I am not divorced the issue is mute. When and if the issue is ever not mute, well, we'll just have to wait and see.
