Nikki turns . . . one year older

So I won't tell you how young my wife is--I guess it's none of your business. But on October 14, 2009 I can tell you some things about her life. It's been a life of commonness and miracles.

Commonness is boring? I don't think so. Nikki has never taken drugs, struggled with substance abuse, robbed banks or been violent (unless you count the way she pounds a lump of dough). She has never flunked out of school, been arrested or gotten a tattoo. It's funny because when people are young they often pursue the things that they think will make them happy (partying, momentary highs, education, friends, money, etc.). From the beginning Nikki has pursued what will bring real happiness (Christ, Scripture, truth-telling, faithfulness, loyalty, family and for some reason yet to be understood, me). It's ironic to me that our world has made the pursuit of immediate gratification "normal" (expected), and the pursuit of that which will bring true happiness "abnormal." Nikki didn't buy in. Her pursuit of real happiness in Christ is extraordinary--and it has changed my life.

Miracles? Where would I start to explain to you the miracles that God has done in and through Nikki for me? Nikki has shown me what character is all about. She has been non-negotiable on the most important things in life and has been pliable in areas where she has needed growth. She has silently prayed for me when I have been a jerk and has offered input when I've been ready. She has displayed submission and a quiet spirit fearlessly. She has carried silent burdens for herself and others to the throne of grace. She has wisely helped me raise children--and so much of their character is owed to her countless hours of discipline, education and patience. Her life has impacted my life, the life of our children and our church and community for Christ--for eternity. That is miraculous.

And she looks miraculous.

She's not perfect. Since this is my blog, I choose to emphasize the best in her, not just because it's her birthday but also because I love her. Love rejoices in the truth, and "covers" faults. The fact is that her love for me has done the same (covered my faults) exponentially. We're two very imperfect people rejoicing that "we are not yet what we will be, but, by God's grace we are not what we once were."

So today I celebrate the common and miraculous in Nikki! One day she will write a book, probably have her own business, and continue to turn this world upside-down with her love of God and me. If there are no books or her own business, it'll be okay--the miracles remain. Her life has incredible significance because she is willing to embrace being a wife, mother and humble servant of the most high God. My soul glories in this woman.

I wish I had words in my to express the way Nikki has impacted my life and loved me. I don't. But this I say: I'd rather have Nikki than all the riches of this world, silver and gold. I have found a good thing.

Happy Birthday, Nikki! I love you! You are my life in this world!