1,268 days ago, I married Rebecca Bradley. On a beautiful November afternoon in the quaint little city of Franklin, NC, I pledged my life and my love to my gorgeous bride. Standing at the altar at Cowee Baptist Church, the most beautiful woman in the world and I stood before Rev. Lloyd Fish and agreed to walk this road called "Life", come what may...good or bad.
Shortly after we "took the plunge", God placed a little girl in our lives. Gabby caused our hearts to grow and yearn for children. As many of you know, we have battled through infertility. God has yet to allow us to have birth children of our own, but He has placed a strong desire in our hearts to foster children who have been abandoned, neglected, and abused.
In November 2010, God allowed us to adopt Ethan, our first foster child. He is the sparkle in our eyes. He is a mixture of both his mother and me. When you see Ethan, you are either looking at me or Rebecca.
Today is Mother's Day, and further, it is Rebecca's first official Mother's Day. She has loved like none other. She is the most compassionate woman. She loves God, and she is a direct reflection of Him. She loves past all faults and is understanding of everyone, regardless of their current or past situation. To me, she is the best partner anyone could ever have. She keeps me in check. She lets me know when I am insensitive or not considerate of others or their feelings. Rebecca is so supportive through every facet of ministry. Her touch is comforting and her hugs are addicting. As a mother, she is so loving and understanding. She is always there to help our children when they fall and scrape a knee. She is the source of much laughter in our home. Speaking of home, her love turns our house into a home. She is the staple in all of our lives.
So, on this Mother's Day, words cannot express the feelings we have for Mommy Rebecca. She is the most wonderful mother to our children. Her love is boundless and I cannot wait to see all of the children God will send our way to be forever changed by her compassion.
Happy Mother's Day, Sweetheart!
We love you!
What a beautiful tribute! Happy Mother's Day, Becky! I know very, very well that you do not have to carry a child in your womb to carry them in your heart. I can tell you from experience that my love for Maggie is just the same as my love for the babies that grew within me. It's a gift of grace from the Lord, and I know He's given you the same gift. No matter what He has in store for you, remember that you ARE 100% a mother. You are missing nothing from your love or experience because you did not carry Ethan in your own belly. I promise. But I also know that I did not fully realize that until I had given birth myself. So my words will do nothing to your longing or heartbreak over infertility. But I still just felt strongly the need to affirm you as a mother!
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