Back from Germany, and Back to "Reality"

All of our posts and pictures from Germany will come this weekend (I hope), but for now, I just need to comment on the sad state of Jon & Kate Plus 8.

In Germany, the average number of children in a family is less than two (about 1.3), and here in the States we see multiples on a regular basis. Mark and I were watching a little late night television last week, and one show featured a German family with eight children (seven boys, one girl, and I think only one set of twins). They discussed what it the atmosphere was like at their home, how their financial situation was, etc. Interestingly enough the father in this family is self-employed, and they do not accept the extra aid available from the state government. (I am not completely sure, but my understanding is that there is almost a financial incentive to have more children in Germany.)

Now jump with me back to the United States. In the beginning I really enjoyed Jon & Kate plus 8. It was funny, it was real, and they were showing the world that being perfect was not possible but thanks to grace, imperfection was bearable. They are quite different from the previously mentioned German family (having two sets of multiples), and being on television almost every day. My heart goes out to the Gosselin family. Not just their precious children, but especially to Jon & Kate.

I do not know the answer, but I hope they can reconcile their marriage. Their books, videos and talks have centered around their faith. They made a commitment to each other before they had their eight wonderful children. Watching the show reminds me of the grace I need to constantly show Mark. It helps me to see that my tongue and my intentions are often hurtful or hindering if I am not first loving & serving my God, and second loving & serving my husband, and our marriage.

That being said, I cannot imagine trying to find the time to love & care for eight children and also have time to love & care for your spouse. It is hard enough for me to wake-up ontime each morning just to arrive at work promptly.

So, as I prepare to be a witness at two weddings this weekend, I offer one little piece of advice (from my four months of marriage): Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. Love your spouse as yourself.

It is the I'm third philosophy, and if you are blessed with children, then you are fourth. It works.

Heavenly Father...Please teach us how to be the kind of spouses that you desire us to be, so that one day, should you bless us with children, we might be the parents you want us to be as well-keeping our eyes fixed on You, and making our marriage the next priority.