THE VOW KEPT

THE VOW KEPT

A Story of Honor

I just watched the movie trailer for the soon to be released movie called THE VOW.  The movie is based on a true story and of course I have not seen it yet.  In our book WE PROMISE, we tell about a true story of honor and love.  This story about Eric and Colleen’s life is worthy to receive the title; THE VOW KEPT.  Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and this is a story of love.

Years ago we had the privilege of becoming friends with Eric and Colleen. Our friendship was easily developed because we shared much in common. Our beliefs in God are the same as well as our love for the water. We are all bona fide Lakers to the fullest extent. As we grew to know Eric and Colleen, it became very evident that their love for each other was deeply rooted, and they were true examples of honoring one another. Their love story is well worth sharing.

Eric and Colleen were high school sweethearts. Being each other’s best friends and truly loving one another, they married young and together had one son. Summer as well as winter activities have always been paramount in their lives. They have been very active physically. Eric and Colleen are the type of people who live life to the fullest and are diligent to see any task as well as activity through. They have now been married for forty years.

About fifteen years ago after returning from a downhill skiing trip to Utah, Colleen had a severe stroke. Life as they knew it changed dynamically. Even though Colleen is a determined, strong woman, the best of medicine and rehabilitation could not reverse the damage of the stroke or grant her a full recovery. The last few years have brought on increased medical challenges with many hospitalizations. One thing that has always been evident to Dan and me is Eric’s undying devotion and support of Colleen. Eric always honors his wife in word and deed; when he speaks of her, he says she is unstoppable, his love for her is undying, and he calls her his bride. Together they have faced great challenges, especially these last few years.

Colleen fights for victory over the physical challenges she faces and Eric does whatever he can to keep life as they knew it. Eric has maintained an incredible attitude. He always has a smile on his face, remaining upbeat and hopeful. He never once has expressed to us frustration or complained about their situation. He admires Colleen’s steadfast determination to keep on going, despite each day’s challenge. Through hospital and rehabilitation stays, Eric has remained by his bride’s side, encouraging and spurring her on. It is very common for him to spend the night with her at these facilities. Together they have faced challenges with great tenacity and determination to overcome and keep on going.

The traditions that they established in their younger years have continued to this day. From the simplest details of decorating for the holidays to remodeling their house and saving time for the water, unrelenting passions and a love for their God has kept them going. Dan and I have often discussed how difficult these last fifteen years must have been for them as a couple; we are convinced they are a true example of honoring one another.

Proverbs 4:23(NKJV)
Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.

Ruth 1:16-17(NKJV)
But Ruth said: “Entreat me not to leave you, Or to turn back from following after you; For wherever you go, I will go; And wherever you lodge, I will lodge; Your people shall be my people, And your God, my God.
Where you die, I will die, And there will I be buried. The Lord do so to me, and more also, If anything but death parts you and me.”

Taken from:  WE PROMISE ~ 18 Foundational Stones for an Unshakeable Marriage

Chapter ~ Honor Guards