A Charge to the Bride and Groom

This thing called love’s not hearts and doves.
It’s struggle, sweat and grime.
It’s hanging tough when life gets rough.
And so I wrote this rhyme.

I’ll say it slow. I hope you know.
This is no average day.
This is the time for love to shine
and so my friends I pray
that you will find the means to mine
the gold that’s buried deep.
You’ve got to dig. You can’t renege.
That’s how your vows you’ll keep.

For we’re inclined to clutch what’s mine
and seek what’s best for me.
But love that lives won’t take, but gives
like Christ on Calvary.

For in this life a man and wife
can see that joy and pain
each play a part to win the heart.
And so make this your aim…

Be quick to say, “I sought my way.
I’m sorry. Please forgive.”
With each new dawn, let tiffs be gone.
Show grace in how you live.

And if it seems you’ve lost your dreams,
ask God to give you more.
To aim for goals will fuel your souls
to reach for what’s in store.

And when there’s pain, don’t try to blame
each other for the cause.
Just recognize that life breeds sighs,
discouragement and blahs.

But in those times when lines don’t rhyme
and you’re reduced to tears,
confess your cares to God in prayer.
Acknowledge that He’s near.

So here you stand. Please understand.
These words aren’t just for you.
They’re for us all so we’ll recall
what makes true love stay true.