Happy Anniversary!

36 years is a long time to do anything.

My parents celebrated their 36th wedding anniversary yesterday and when my dad told me it had been that long, I thought he was joking. My parents don't hardly seem that old, although my dad will celebrate the big 6-0 next year. Such a senior citizen.

My mom and dad, although far from perfect, have been the best examples I could ask for when learning about marriage and love and family. They were married in 1972 and spent four years trying to have children, but never lost their faith that God was in control. In 1976 they got pregnant with my brother Jason and against their doctor's "advice" to terminate the pregnancy, they again held tight to their faith in a God who knows best. Obviously, my brother was born completely normal (although normal is not usually a Dean descriptor) and my parents spent the next 15 years bringing the rest of us into the world: Sarah, Beka, Leah, Joanna, Caleb, and Micah. And they said my mom couldn't have kids! Pah!

We have never been wealthy by the world's standards and probably could have been labeled "Dirt Poor". The thing is, we never knew it. I never knew that my mom didn't know where the next meal was coming from, or that our Christmas presents were 'recycled' from the year before, or that my parents were struggling to pay the light bill. All we knew was that our mom and dad loved us and that we were all in this thing together. I think that's one of the most important things that kids need to know: that their mom & dad are committed to staying together and making it work, no matter what. My parents did that and gave all of us the peace and comfort knowing that our family was safe. I am eternally grateful for that!

And my parents have taught me what it really means to love someone. It doesn't meant that you always agree. It doesn't mean that you dominate the other person. It doesn't mean that you require the other person to give up their individuality, their passions, or their interests. It means that you listen to what they have to say without judging. It means that you give them the space and freedom to be who they are and enjoy what they love. It means that you encourage them to become better. It means that you take care of them and a lot of times, place their needs above your own. It means that you support them. It means......that you love them. Like I said, my parents weren't perfect, but I know without a doubt that they love eachother; even when they can't stand eachother.

Thanks, Mom & Dad: Ellie & Jer: Granny & PJ. I love you both for loving eachother, loving our family and loving Jesus.