P4E.021 I'm on Your Side

In the past, I have viewed my wife like many Christian men do, as "support." This was fostered by my understanding that my wife was to be my "help." So, I went to "work" and she took care of all the rest. That was her role. I did not see it as my responsibility to help around the house or to do many things that would let her know that we were "one" or that I appreciated her at all. I was not on her side. My role was "breadwinner." In fact, I was insensitive enough to criticise my wife's handling of affairs on the home front. This was all very draining to her. It also forced her to become very independent of me. She could not count on me. I was busy with "work."

That did not work well. It was not Christlike. In Life Partners ministry, I was reminded that Christ was/is a source of strength, not a draining influence. Jesus said, "Come unto me all who are weary and heavy-laden and I will give you rest...I am gentle and humble in heart; and you shall find rest for your souls." I want to be more like Him.

The last couple of weeks have been stressful at work. I have not been a source of strength for my wife, but have been rather weak. "Edgy." My old impatient self has been leaking out here and there. I've always gotten inspiration from music and song lyrics. So, this is dedicated to my wife, Gwen. This is my re commitment to you, dear:

When you're weary
feeling small
When tears are in your eyes
I will dry them all
I'm on your side
when times get rough
like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
I will lay me down

When you're down and out
when you're on the street
When evening falls so hard
I will comfort you
I'll take your part
when darkness comes
and pain is all around
like a bridge over troubled water
I will lay me down
I will lay me down

like a bridge over troubled water
I will ease your mind
I will ease your mind

Artist: Simon and Garfunkel
Song: Bridge Over Troubled Water
Album: Bridge Over Troubled Water

I love you Gwen!

And peace to all who read this blog! Kim