GlocalNet

Today, May 17, is a very significant, celebratory—even holy day. Nikki and I have been married 25 years today. Sounds like a long time—but hasn’t seemed it. Sometimes, I find it hard to believe I am doing what I do, living where I live, experiencing life as I do. I graduated from Baylor University in Waco, Texas Friday night, May 16, then drove to Lindale, Texas. The next morning had a brunch and rehearsal in Lindale, then we were married at 2pm in the afternoon. It was fast—and it has remained fast. I see no end of that in sight. 20 years ago, Nikki and I started NorthWood. 30 years ago, I asked her to marry me. We’ve had an awesome journey.
I remember the first time she got on a plane. She flew with me to Chicago for a meeting. I hadn’t been flying much at that point. We went through a bad storm and the turbulence was incredible. I acted like it was normal — even though it wasn’t! Now, she flies around the world without me at times—pity the customs agent who tries to go through her purse!!!!
I remember our first argument — 1am, the night of our wedding — driving in San Antonio trying to find the hotel. My first encounter with manhood — refusing to stop to get directions as to where we were going — the stars would suffice! But they didn’t!
I remember my first stupid act. As a joke, I poured ice water on Nikki in bed to wake her up. It was very, very stupid, and I paid very, very dearly. I haven’t done that again.
I remember the birth of Ben & Jill. I wept both times. The beauty of emerging life—how can that ever be described. The responsibility of a little bundle of flesh that is so incredibly dependent on you for everything. Now, having to learn to let go—a part of my life that I enjoyed more than any other time.
I remember when I said “I do.” It wasn’t at the ceremony—but 5 years later after we’d had a session of “creative communication.” I wanted to end it—so did Nikki—it wouldn’t be the last time for either of us—but it was the moment we said “for better or worse.” Easy to say “yes” with romance — harder to say “yes” with life. That’s when we moved from romance to love.
I remember when we moved to start our church 20 years ago. She encouraged me—a huge risk, no big deal for me—but for her? I’m the risk-taker teetering on a wire. She’s the careful, count the cost. I once asked her, “How can you handle the risk I take?” Her response, “I love watching you get out on the edge!” My response, “Yeah, but if I fall you fall with me—don’t you get that?” Her response, “Yeah, but I’ve never seen you fall!”
I remember the first time I went to a dangerous part of the world. She encouraged me—was it the life insurance? No—it’s what makes us who we are.
I don’t know if we’ll make it to 50 or not. I may or she may die before then, but if we can keep the same sense of adventure, risk, curiosity, exploration, and worship of God — however long we’ve got — it’ll be good — I love you Nikki and will always be grateful to you.