Mason and I will be celebrating our 13^th wedding anniversary on Monday. If you do the math, you’ll realize that we were married four days after September 11, 2001. The real problem was that Mason lived in Colorado and I lived in Ohio. Mason was supposed to board a flight on September 12.

At some point during the day on Tuesday, Mason called me and said, “I just can’t get there.” His travel arranger at work had been looking at alternative ways for Mason to make it to his wedding. She checked trains, buses, and rental cars. There was nothing available.

So after work on Tuesday, Mason loaded his little sports car and headed to Ohio (a 24-hour trip) for our Saturday wedding day. He was exhausted, but our wedding was perfect.

Our wedding day was clouded by the events earlier in the week. To this day, we always know when our anniversary is approaching because of the 9/11 television programs to help us remember the day so much changed in America. Together as a nation, we found strength to move on and rebuild.

Jump ahead 12 years and another event occurred that affected many lives. The flood waters in Colorado enveloped homes and lives of so many one year ago. The devastation was indescribable. Lives were changed. Dreams were shattered. But through the past year, we’ve seen Colorado strength rise to action and have seen communities and lives rebuilt.

I am reminded that in the midst of the good in our lives, there will always be times of trouble. Jesus spoke to this in John 16:33, but Jesus also gives hope in this verse. Jesus said it, “I have overcome the world!” When we hold onto this truth, we are able to enjoy the good in our lives.

I love Psalm 16:9-11 from The Voice. I’ve shared it before with you, but I believe it is a good reminder for us today.

“This is the good life—my heart is glad, my soul is full of joy, and my body is at rest. Who could want for more? You will not abandon me to experience death and the grave or leave me to rot alone. Instead, You direct me on the path that leads to a beautiful life. As I walk with You, the pleasures are never-ending and I know true joy and contentment.”

When we walk along the path of God’s will, we are able to see the beautiful life that He has placed before us. This is the good life!

It might be easy for me to feel guilty about celebrating my wedding anniversary because of the events 13 years ago and 1 year ago. These events will always hold a special place in my heart, but I must move on. I must celebrate. So over the next few days, Mason and I will celebrate. It was a beautiful day when we said, “I do” and it will be a beautiful day 13 years later. I know true joy and contentment.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna