Spontaneous Praise from my BIL

I was tagged in a note on facebook Tuesday titled Spontaneous Praise. What was written about me touched me so much that I wanted to share, and asked my brother in law (whom wrote it) if I could do so. He said yes, so here we go:


So last night I was on the phone for a little while with my friend A, and God just put it on my heart to read Psalms with her, and make lists of what her and I were thankful to God for, then we prayed and it was awesome. One of her praises was for people in her life to encourage her and people she loved. Then we read Psalms 66-67 and it was all about the people exclaiming how good God has been to them. I don't really know why this didn't happen last night, but as I thought about our conversation this morning, thoughts about Heather hit me like a ton of bricks. I said it at the wedding, and it feels even more true now than it did then, when I say that there's just some connection in family that I can't explain. I love you so much . . .and I'm just your brother-in-law. I know it's because of everything you've done for my brother, in loving him so much, and having such a Christ-like heart of mercy, and that just blows my mind. Ryan's life and happiness seemingly become more and more important to me every year, and I guess it just fills my heart with peace when I see the life you have together, and what you mean to him . . .it just makes me love you so much. Not only that, but just your willingness to serve and help others, including me many times before. God paints a picture of the bride of Christ(the church) as loving, faithful, not self-seeking, humble, helpful, etc . . . and when I think of those qualities, I see all of them in you, and can't help but go back and tear up for how blessed my brother is, and in turn, how blessed we all are for you. I couldn't be happier you're my sister, and couldn't be more sure that your mom is swelling with pride today at the woman you are.

Reading this Tuesday choked me up. Of course, I cry when I am sad, happy, excited, it don't matter! I cry! We often don't take time to tell the ones we love how much they truly mean to us. This note that my brother in law took the time to type up and share with me, will forever have meaning to me. It means so much more than a simple "I love you" or "You are so special to me". Wow. Just wow. When you take the time to truly tell or show someone how much they mean to you, you'd be surprised at how happy that small sentiment will make them. It truly is the small things in life. Money and presents doesn't show someone how much you care. Acts like the one above do. I am so blessed to have wonderful in-laws that are loving and accepting of me and my passions.

He caught the garter... Watch out ladies! :)

XOXO