LIFE ON THE FAMILY FARM UNDER AN OPEN HEAVEN
By: Tom Heck
My Valentine
I remember back many years ago to a very special time in my life, Feb. 14, 1989. It was Valentine’s Day, and it was the third month that I had been dating a very beautiful, Godly lady named Joanne.
Even though neither one of us were rich financially, we felt that we should splurge that day and make it really special. It was special to me already because this was the first time in my life that I had a girl friend on Valentine’s Day. I bought Joanne a large heart shaped box of premium chocolates ahead of time to give to her that day.
I did the regular farm work that day and then milked the cows that evening in great anticipation of seeing my sweetheart. I dressed up super nice and then drove the 30 some miles to pick up my valentine. When she came to the door, I was stunned. She was absolutely beautiful.
Even though that was 23 years ago, I remember it as though it were yesterday. She was wearing a beautiful cream colored dress, with cream colored heels and a sharp red scarf around her neck. After exchanging some greetings and giving her the box of delicious chocolates, we went out to eat at a fine restaurant. Since I had milked cows that evening it put us pretty late and thus the place was virtually empty. We had it all to ourselves except for the cooks and waiters. It looked like I had bought the place out for my special date!
We ordered our special meal and when it arrived we thanked the Lord for it. We asked Him to bless it and our time together. The lights were turned down way low as we started to eat and visit. We then noticed a short ways away that somebody had earlier that evening ordered candles for their table. Since the people were long gone, and the candles were still burning, I brought them to our table. We dined like a king and queen that evening. I still remember as if it were yesterday, looking into Joanne’s radiant face that evening in the flickering candle light. I’ve come to realize that God is the author of romance.
We visited long that evening and then I took her home. Then it happened. Before I left to go home for the night we kissed each other for the first time. Wow!
I am happy to say that we kept our relationship pure before God and man. Several months later in August I had the privilege of marrying my valentine, my soul mate.
Every year on Valentine’s Day we think back to our first one and celebrate anew the love God has given us for each other. We also let our children know that they are special to us.
So this year I will be getting my valentine a big heart shaped box of chocolates and maybe some flowers too or something else special.
Husbands and wives, love your spouse and treat them special. Splurge on them a little. If you have a good spouse they are well worth it. You will build memories that will last a life time. In the end you will find as you bless them, that you are the one that is blessed the most. I know that is most certainly true for me. I still remember that special candle light dinner and kiss!
Tom Heck 