Take a look...

How many of us take the time to look in the mirror, and really see whos there. I know I dont. Or at least I havent yet made a habit of it. Through no work of my own, and the courage of someone I hold very dear, Ive been given the courage to do so. If youre reading this, than youve most likely read my wifes blog(http://angieholladay.blogspot.com/) If not then go read it. In her words, she describes the hardships of her past, her struggles with addictions, and the feelings of each situation...and lays it all out for us to bare witness to. I know I havent had the courage to do this kind of thing...its another re-affirmation to me, of how God works in our lives, and helps to tear down walls, and rebuild our hearts. The honor I feel to be married to such a woman, its hard to describe, I thank God everyday for my family.
The bond of marriage is taken for granted in today's society...it goes beyond the oaths, beyond the security and tax breaks. You have to die to self..put this woman before you. Think of her always. Become the man of God that she needs you to be. When you fail to do this, become lazy and lose focus on whats important, it will ALWAYS bite you in the ass. It has for me. I have not held up my end of the bargain on many occasions, and yet, she always lifts me back up...forgives me, and puts my guilt to rest.
And so I look in the mirror.
There are times when I can see myself clearly, and man up to my mistakes and shortcomings. But if Im really honest with myself, most of the time I cant look myself in the eye. Its not that I think Im a horrible person or anything like that..but to truly change, as a person, as a man, as a husband...that takes work. Work. Real work. No more words, no more intentions. But work. And more often than not, the person looking back at me in the mirror isnt up for that.
So, reading my wifes latest blog...wow. If she can do it...after everything shes been through and more than overcome...well...f*ck it...so can I.
My life hasnt been hard. It hasnt been tested. It hasnt been much...till now.
I have everything to live for, every reason to work for and succeed.
All of this soul searching aside....my reason for writing this blog is to honor my wife, plain and simple.
So, this is my letter to you baby.

Dear Angie.
From the minute I saw you, I knew Id found her, the one.
As we got to know each other, it became clear that my life would be changed forever, and it has, for the better for sure. Our son is a constant reminder of our love, and our blood together. All too often in your life, youve been overlooked and discounted. Called a liar, criminal, and other things I wont repeat here. Youve been restless your whole life, knowing that theres more, that there had to be a reason...for all of it.
So, I lift you up, I thank God for you, and I give you all the validation you deserve, and I honor your sacrifices. Your life, your words, have touched people, made a difference, and will continue to do so. You are beautiful in every way, and you have given me the courage I need to become the man I need to be, for myself, for you, and for our son.

I love you baby.
Always have.
Always will.

Love,
Me.