Two elderly people – he a widower and she a widow, had known each other for a number of years. One evening there was a community supper in the activity center. The two were at the same table. As the meal went on, he took a few admiring glances at her and finally gathered the courage to ask her, "Will you marry me?" After about six seconds of ’careful consideration,’ she answered, "Yes. Yes, I will."

The meal ended and they went to their respective places. The next morning, he was troubled. "Did she say ’yes’ or did she say ’no’?" He couldn’t remember. Try as he might, he just could not recall. Not even a faint memory. With trepidation, he went to the telephone and called her. First, he explained that he didn’t remember as well as he used to. Then he gained a little more courage, and inquired. "When I asked if you would marry me, did you say ’Yes’ or did you say ’No’?" He was delighted to hear her say, "I said, ’Yes, yes I will’ and I meant it with all my heart." Then she continued, "I am so glad that you called, because I couldn’t remember who had asked me."

I remember well when Mary said yes. I have been forever grateful.  J. Vernon McGee said, "I want to say that I have always thanked the Lord for my wife. It is wonderful to have a good wife - and to have someone who is able to put up with me! I want to echo that sentiment. You all know the statement that behind every successful man stands a good woman. Sometimes with a cattle prod - cause we sometimes need it. Proverbs 31 praises a noble woman who is a good wife, mother, community member, and career woman. Proverbs 31:10 says, "she is “worth far more than rubies.” Proverbs 12:4 “A wife of noble character is her husband’s crown.” Hardly a day goes by I’m not aware of the value of Mary in my life. I don’t always acknowledge it, but I am aware. Mary & I are like any couple - good days / a few difficult days. I am incredibly blessed and like J Vernon I want to say I have always thanked the Lord for my wife.