Reflecting on Gratitude and Aspirations

A Journey of Self-Discovery: From Doubt to a Prayer’s Answer

Life Stories, Christianity, Perspectives

Per-nal zeraynwrites.org

As the notification for my friend’s birthday popped up on my screen, my mind did not immediately leap to thoughts of gifts or celebratory events. Instead, my thoughts were drawn to her unique personality and the things I had come to know about her over the course of our friendship.

Myh /maɪ/ has reserved yet welcoming disposition; she embodies a gentle strength that endears her to those around her. Her innate musical talent and passion for this art form has served as an opportunity for forging meaningful connections, fostering relationships grounded in shared interests and a common love for the LORD. Through her dedication to her craft, she has found opportunities to express her faith and serve the community, utilizing her gifts. I wondered, “how has her marriage to Bert impacted her perspective on birthdays and celebrations?”

Following the conclusion of the Sunday Worship Service, I eagerly approached Myh with a sense of anticipation, eager to learn more about her thoughts and experiences surrounding her birthday. The following are her reflections:

When I was single, I was always anxious for the several uncertainties in life. So, I carried a sense of uncertainty about the value and significance of my own birthday. While I appreciated the well wishes and gestures of kindness from friends and family, I doubt that it warranted a significant attention or appreciation of my life.

Now that I’m married, things are different. Marriage has certainly brought a sea of change to my life. With a constant companion by my side, I have a sense of stability and belonging that was once elusive. In the past, birthdays were often a source of internal conflict as I weighed the value of celebration against the discomfort of drawing attention to myself. But now, with my husband’s steadfast presence, I find myself more willing to embrace the joy and recognition that these occasions bring. His unwavering support has allowed me to feel more comfortable in the joy of sharing love and appreciation.

It’s been a blessing to have a partner who constantly reminds me that ” I am an answer to someone’s prayer”. Celebrating birthdays has become an opportunity for us to reflect on the gratitude we feel towards one another. This shared reflection has also allowed us to consider our goals and aspirations, both for ourselves and the family that we hope to create. Since our marriage, we have made a concerted effort to cultivate healthier habits, not just for our own benefit but also for the well-being of our future children.

Recognizing the importance of establishing healthy habits not only for ourselves but also for the benefit of our future family, we have embarked on a journey to cultivate routines that prioritize wellness and financial stability. Specifically, we are focusing on improving our sleep and dietary habits, as well as managing our finances with greater discipline and prudence. By consciously investing in our health, well-being, and financial security, we hope to provide a strong foundation for our future children.

These conversations serve as a bridge, unifying our distinct aspirations into shared goals for our future. As we navigate the early stages of marriage, we embrace the notion that this journey is one we traverse as partners. While uncertainty may abound, we find solace in the knowledge that we can confront these challenges together, united by our commitment to each other and the life we aspire to build.

After listening to her, I came to appreciate the personal growth and development that often accompanies significant life decisions, such as marriage. While every couple’s journey is unique, Myh’s experience serves as a shining example of the transformative power of finding one’s purpose through the shared experience of matrimony. The things she has realized – from an anxious young woman with potential to a confident and self-assured wife – is a testament to her resilience and determination to grow and flourish in the context of her marriage.

Myh closed our conversation with an uplifting and powerful reminder imparted to her by her father. His encouraging words, a passage taken from Matthew 6:33, reverberate with a profound truth:

“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

This wisdom serves as a resonant testament to the importance of prioritizing one’s faith and values in the pursuit of personal growth and fulfillment.