The simple joys in reunion

It has been far too long since my last post. Courtney's been back from Australia for nearly three weeks now and I've found my free time devoted largely to her--as it should be. It's been so good to have her back. It's interesting how relationships mature when forced to cope with extended periods of distance. Five months is quite a long time to be separated, from my perspective, and many unforeseen challenges presented themselves in the process. But the beauty of it is what is learned as you work through the challenges. As you honestly communicate, make joint, intentional efforts to find resolutions, and be both wholly committed to first find your peace, comfort, and joy in Christ, incredible growth and even a stronger relationship can be found at the other end of the distance. Not that it hasn't been a bit of an adjustment to be together again after so long an absence. It's remarkable the elemental things you don't always consciously recognize--the facial expressions, the touch of a hand, just the comfort of a felt presence, even the significance of operating in the same time zone, interacting at the same time of day--these important things you almost unknowingly learn to do without. The ache of their absence is felt though not entirely understood. It is almost as though the weight of the substance and joy they bring isn't comprehended till they are gone, and then finally, when they are all but forgotten, they are suddenly there again--subtly changed a bit with the effects, influences, and experiences of time--but remarkably the same. It's all a bit overwhelming, but overwhelmingly good. Be encouraged those of you who are separated for a time.