50 YEARS
/50 Years.
That is half a century. Let that sink in. It’s a marker to be celebrated when you reach age alone but on an anniversary? LET’S RAGE! Sadly enough, a lot of couples don’t make it to 20, let alone 50 years anymore. I am not judging those that didn’t make it so calm down because this isn’t about you. This is about celebrating everyone’s favorites, Randall and Gail Godwin! Some know them as Gran and Pop, and two of us know them as Mom and Dad.
Having a front row seat for the last 37 years has been rather special when I look back. I’ve heard from many people that marriage is hard and takes work. Staying in love is a choice you make daily because there are times you don’t want to deal with things that come up and at times you don’t want to be the one who is wrong. I asked my parents to give some words of wisdom for others and share those below. Before that I want to tell you about things Tammy (my sister) and I have witnessed and learned over the years in regards to marriage.
Input from Randall and Gail with some additives from yours truly.
* Being on the same page spiritually. Having the same beliefs and core foundation. If you don’t have those in agreement, it’s going to be all the more challenging. I’m a Christian and that is something that is very important to me so I want that as a central part of a relationship. Mom said that she’s been able to see where God has been guiding her and Dad throughout their marriage even when they didn’t realize it. In addition to that, if you’re a Christian, keep your family in church. That helps keep accountability within your relationship and hopefully reminds you to keep God at the center of your marriage.
* Let go of self. Really listen to one another and respect each other. Do not let emotions take over in the heat of the moment. If we let our emotions determine our response and reactions, we will never have successful and healthy friendships and romantic relationships.
* Spend quality time together doing things your spouse enjoys. That compromise shows the other person you are intentional with caring about their desires. It ties in with selflessness
Tammy and I had a brief chat and here are some of the things we discussed. Kindness and humility are important. Admit when you’re wrong and take ownership for your actions and words. You don’t always have to be right and spoiler alert: you won’t always be right. Commitment is hard because you are giving of yourself fully to continue getting to know and love the other person (for the rest of your days here on Earth). Don’t stop fighting FOR one another. Keep going.
Mom and Dad, thanks for incredible examples to your children, grandchildren, and all the others who have had the pleasure of knowing you over the years. Your humbleness makes you hate being doted on but you really are worth celebrating. We admire you. We respect you. We love you. Happy 50th Anniversary!.
