Take A Minute

A couple of weeks ago, Ray and I participated in a trade show. We set up our tables with our Hearts Engaged products, made sure everything looked just right, and added a bit of Christmas-y decor to draw people in. It was a two-day event with lots of vendors and a small concession for lunch and snacks.

On the first day, around lunchtime, Ray decided to grab something from the concession. We weren’t too busy at our table, so off he went for a bowl of soup and a sandwich. From where I sat, I could see him. I watched him walk over, place his order, and settle in with what looked like a delicious lunch.

I watched him take a bite of his sandwich and give a little nod of approval… then a spoonful of soup and another nod. Clearly, lunch was a win.

Such simple actions... and yet I sat there, hardly able to keep myself together. I was overwhelmed with love for him in that moment. Even writing this now, I have tears streaming down my face. I don’t know why those ordinary movements... ordering lunch, taking a few bites... hit me the way they did, but they did.

The only thing I can think of is this: when was the last time I just watched him? The way he talks, the way he moves… even the way he eats a sandwich.

I sometimes take him for granted. I take our time together for granted. And I don’t want to. That little moment with soup and a sandwich reminded me to slow down and really “see” him. Just as he is.

Could I encourage you today? Take a minute and simply watch your spouse. Remember when you were dating and you could hardly take your eyes off them? Everything they did felt amazing. Then life gets busy, routines settle in, and we forget to pause.

Take a minute. Let your heart notice them again. You’ll be glad you did.