Tony McWilliams married me, 35 years ago, on the most romantic day of the year—income tax day! April 15!
The favorite word we share, after all these years, is “EXTENTION.” It is about more than a “taxing” marriage, but a hope and prayer. Extending our love, reach and opportunities are in addition to extending our yearly tax returns. Extending our life dreams, plans and purposes are gifts we wait to open. Extending our home, family and skills to others is a joy. There is more since He has extended His love, grace and goodness to us after all these years!
On one beautiful Saturday afternoon, in 1978, in Decatur, Illinois, Tony and I were married. A crowd of friends joined us, and the orchestrated music filled the room as our attendants walked down the front auditorium winding steps on each side of the stage. I watched from a crack in the doorway of a backroom where I waited with my dad. Soon, it was my turn to be escorted down the aisle to my young love, Tony. As the music escalated and the audience stood to their feet, the tears flowed down my cheeks, though I had sworn not to cry. I did not want it to ruin my makeup.
As my dad lovingly, but steadily walked me to my new promising future, he said tenderly, “You don’t have to marry him if you don’t want to.” How sweet to give the option, but my mind was made up and my focus intent. What a day.
Our dear friend, Dr. Helms, received us and then my dad performed the ceremony and married us. I sang to Tony and we both quoted our own vows we had written to each other. Communion was shared and both of our fathers spoke the blessing over us as we knelt together. A declaration was said over us that still rings loud in my ears as I write.
“Go, for My people are waiting.”
Great friends, family, long lines and duplicate gifts were part of our special day. A friend had hidden our car so no one would ruin our travel plans after the wedding reception and dinner with close family and friends.
We honeymooned in Paris. Well, Paris, Tennessee, on the lake and enjoyed the lodge nearly to ourselves.
Now, seeing beyond the years and all that has transpired, we celebrate today our love and faithful commitment to each other. “For better or worse; in sickness and health; in the good times and the bad times; through each season and change, we resolve to “Go, for His people are waiting.”
Thank you, Tony, for asking me to “serve the Lord with you for the rest of your life.” Saying “I do” has led the way to five awesome children the doctors said we would never have. Our love will live on and the “fruit of our womb will be His reward.” April 15, 1978, has provided dividends and returns of the divine kind. Each day has been like a diamond with different facets and beauty, our love like a ring of gold– unending. Working side by side, sharing our faith and dreams, has been amazing. How fast it has all gone.
Love you, Tony Mac!
How long have you been married? Can you say your love burns as brightly now as the day you were married?
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