NOTE: Thank you to all the kind readers who shared your thoughts and welcome back with me. I love hearing from my readers. I am particularly grateful to those of you who noticed, and pointed out the typo I had on last week’s post. Thank you. It has been corrected. Please don’t hesitate to share your observations, ideas and comments with me!

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Watching the groom as the doors swing open and his bride walks down the aisle is my favorite part of a wedding. The strongest of men turn to mush and tenderness when they see the woman of their dreams.

As the years go by, and day to day busyness piles up, it is hard to recall that gleam in the eye of your one and only. When I do hear words of pride, love, and complement I sometimes become jaded, wondering if there’s a reason I am being buttered up.

That is why the perspective a woman shared with me at the conclusion of a writers conference this week meant so much to me.

“I watched him when you went forward. His eyes got big. He had a huge smile. I could see him saying WOW! I even saw tears forming in his eyes. He was so proud.”

A couple months prior to the conference I had decided against entering any of the contests. I felt as though I did not have time to submit anything worthy. . . except for one piece . . . an article I wrote about Jerry.

Jerry agreed with that submission but encouraged me to make the time to enter multiple categories. I did.

Saturday afternoon we walked around the conference grounds. I told him that I only wanted to win in one category – the article about him, entitled, “A Most Unrealistic Life.” Placing would affirm that others could see the man I know.

With the awards ceremony underway, I rejoiced with each winner. When the category of articles was announced, I did not hear my name for honorable mention, third place, or second place. When first place was announced it sounded like my name, it was! Thank you Jesus, was the silent prayer I uttered as I made my way forward to accept the award. I didn’t get to see Jerry’s face of pride until I returned to my seat. My evening had been made. I looked at him and said, “it’s because it’s about you!”

The evening became a whirlwind for me as I was surprised, and humbled to place in some additional categories. Jerry asked someone take photos of me. I wished someone would take a photo of Jerry for me. I know the old saying is that a picture is worth a thousand words. In this case the verbal picture this woman shared was a priceless gift.

We all need reminders from time to time that the relationship between us and our spouse is one like no other. As great as it is to hear the words from our partner, sometimes we need that outside observer to refresh our view.

How has someone outside of your marriage reminded you of the valuable gift your husband or wife is to you? How can you share words of encouragement about your spouse with others? I’d love to hear your thoughts.