Reflections on Forty Years of Marriage

Last weekend my husband and I celebrated our fortieth anniversary. Unlike some who plan a monumental trip or a dream vacation, we considered several options and decided to take three days and travel to some of our favorite places on the Oregon coast—no agenda, no destination—just us and time.

Everywhere we went, we were congratulated.

• We talked to strangers at a wayside and explained the fauna of the site. They were fascinated.

  

  

• We met others who knew nothing of the historic bridges which grace the coastal route. They left inspired.
• We hadn’t made reservations, but the restaurant we chose for our anniversary dinner honored us with complimentary beverages and a decadent chocolate brownie dessert. One plate, two spoons. Our private table overlooking the ocean was spectacular.
• We stopped at museums we’d missed before.
• Driving north, many of the scenic pull-offs on highway 101 were crowded. On the way back, my husband stopped frequently for photos. We didn’t miss a one.

  

  

We realized a few things had happened in forty years. A glance at your spouse across the room can tell you what he or she is thinking. You finish one another’s sentences. You can laugh at your spouse’s mistakes and he or she won’t be offended, but will laugh with you.

Perhaps that is why the Bible states over and over again (Ephesians 5:31, Mark 10:7-8, Galatians 2:24, Matthew 19:5): “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.”

All in all, the weekend proved to be hours of laughter, miles of scenery, and years of memories. We’re thankful God walked this journey with us.