This trip to Lake Valley was just the way I like it, cool, sunny, and uneventful.  Day three found us headed home and camped near Bridal Veil Falls.  The following morning I rose early, tended the mules, started a fire, and waited for the coffee to boil.  It hadn’t occurred to me what day it was, until Lidge rose from his bedding and handed me a note. “Dear Obie,” the note read, “Happy anniversary!  I hope your trip’s successful.  I hope you enjoy the mountains that you love.  I’m sorry we’re not together today, but I know you had to work.  I’ll fix you your favorite dinner when you get back.  Keep safe, and hurry home.  You’re loving wife Mariah.”  I read the note and took a drink and looked up at my buddy. Lidge gave me a look that was reminiscent of the looks that my dad used to give me, when I’d come home late or messed up really bad!  “You didn’t forget your anniversary, did ya?”  He asked, eyeing me suspiciously.  Thank the Lord I’d remembered, and I’d had it all under control before we left.  But I bowed my head, and crossed my fingers, and prayed that Nehemiah remembered too!

   Back home my prayers were answered when Mr. McCauley delivered an envelope to my wife.  Mariah thanked him kindly, opened the letter and this is what it said: To my lovely wife Mariah, who I love with all my heart, on the occasion of our anniversary; Dear wife,

If I envision my life as a painting, it’s captured in two entirely different scenes,

One of deep discouragement, in dark and somber tones,

And one of blessings in warm and happy shades,

Each depiction accurate, my life has been a tapestry of both.

My attitude depends each day, on which depiction I’m able to reflect.

Through each of these depictions, over all years that we’ve shared,

Run two threads, one being Christ, the other, you.

Those two threads have made my life worthwhile.

The best of my achievements and all I cherish most,

Have come to me through our covenant with Christ.

Thank you for your patience and your love throughout the years,

Thanks for being one of those two threads.

Thanks for being optimistic,

And reflecting the bright warm shades,

And for loving me on those dark days when I can’t.

Thanks for the tedious thankless tasks you perform uncomplaining each day,

Thanks for forgiving when I fall short, and the comforting words you say.

Thanks for not laughing when I misstep and I’m sprawled there in the dirt.

Thank you for smiling when I need your smile most,

And for holding me close when I hurt.

All My Love, Obadiah 

OBIE’S QUEST