building up our husbands

I decided to write a blog post that sort of builds off of my last post.  If you haven't read it yet, I encourage you to read it prior to this one.

Proverbs 27:15 says, "A continual dripping on a very rainy day; And a contentious woman are alike."

This week has been a very hectic week with John's company.  The weather up in Maryland went from 45 degree days, to 85 degree days within a matter of 1 week.  Needless to say, the quick and intense (for April) heat means an HVAC company is up to their heads with calls.

As I ate dinner alone, yet again, last night.  I decided to change my perspective even more.  [well, I can't take full credit for this realization; I must give a shout out to my mom for talking to me and encouraging me to do the following things.]  Not only do I need to be okay with my husband working late (because truly, what could be better than having a man that works super hard for us - for our family?), but I need to build him up and support him more than ever during these times.

{just a quick shout out to my father-in-love who started this HVAC business on his own, running every call, all hours of the day and night by himself - AND my mother-in-love who supported him through it all with 4 YOUNG kids, all 2 years apart...how you did it? I don't know!} It's no wonder where John gets his strong work ethic, dedication, drive, passion, and motivation from.

When I get a call saying "it's going to be another late night", I need to empathize with him and throw my disappointments and sadness behind.  Support and encourage him 100%.

I read this on another blog and loved each of these points; for they are so true (and easy to forget).

Six ways we can build up our husbands:

1. Listen to what he has to say so that you will recognize what's on his heart.
   
2. Make an effort to be as cheerful as you were when you were engaged to be married.
   
3. Ignore his faults and focus on his strong points by taking note of them.
   
4. Compliment him for the way that he looks and the good things that he does like working hard for the family.
   
5. See him for who he is, not who you want him to be.
   
6. Be slow to anger. Relay your frustration with love, respect, and a cool head.

Now, during the late hours and early mornings, I need to focus on these points more than ever.  I want him to feel my 100% support and love - always.  During the easier and harder times - for that's what a marriage should look like (though - far easier said than done, right?!)

So, last night before going to bed, I left John a note at the coffee pot for him to find in the morning saying, "thanks so much for working so hard for us - i love you."  

And you know what?  I got a note back when I got up this morning saying, "thanks for all your love and support.  i love you."

You get what you give; but give no matter WHAT you get.  

Selflessness, baby.  It's what it's all about.

Thanks for walking with us,

JL