Over two decades ago, I met a man that instantly captured my heart. We were introduced by a mutual friend, who thought he would be able to help me with one of my work projects. When she introduced us, she said, “Wendy is the female version of Ron and Ron is the male version of Wendy.” As we continued to work together and got to know each other better we chuckled, because she was right. Over time we developed a friendship that was built on trust, respect, and mutual admiration that has stayed with us over the years. We knew we genuinely wanted the best life had to offer for each other. Our friendship has been the foundation that brought us back into each other’s life’s years later.
As life would have it eventually, we both went through divorces and although our paths would cross from time to time, there was always something that got in the way of us taking the relationship beyond friendship. Periodically, we would check in to see how the other was doing and once again the pieces still had a hard time falling into place to take the relationship to another level. Timing was not on our side. After almost two decades it would be the death of another mutual friend that would bring us together and this time it was the right time for both of us. We began to talk, spend time together and get to know each other in a new way. As the relationship developed, we realized what we both still felt the way we did years ago. The compatibility was still there. Yes, he put a ring on it, and he proposed this past Christmas Eve. He said to me and my family that miles, mistakes, and marriages got in the way and I plan to put an end to that.
Overall, I feel I have been successful in life. I am not referring to money, but rather I have learned how to overcome many of the trials and tribulations that have been thrown my way. I have beautiful children and grandchildren. I have been fortunate to live a life of service and my purpose is about helping others and providing hope and encouragement when things seem difficult. However, when it came to marriage I have struggled, and honestly, I have felt like a failure. I enjoy being a wife and taking care of a husband and family. I have given much thought about marriage and understanding the difference between who we think we should marry and who God has in mind for us to marry. I understand that unless God builds the house, we labor in vain. I am grateful that God gave me another opportunity to live out my dream of being the best wife possible and this time with the man I have held in my heart since the first day we met.
Ron and I were married a few weeks ago and while we were relaxing and enjoying our honeymoon, I read the book, “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill. The book focuses primarily on how to set your mind up to attract what you need to be financially successful, however, it also has some good pointers on how to be successful in life. The chapter on “Organized Planning,” shares, temporary defeat should mean only one thing, the certain knowledge that there is something wrong with your plan…when defeat comes, accept it as a signal that your plans were not sound, rebuild your plans and set sail once more toward your coveted goal. I believe God must be in the plan. If we turn everything over to Him dreams can come true. If you have failed at something that you truly desire, never give up, learn from your mistakes, and set sail again! For more of the story stay tuned next week.
Healing Without Hate: It's a choice. It's a lifestyle. Pass it on!
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is an international coach, consultant, trainer, author and speaker. She can also be found live on Instagram @Wendygladney on Wednesdays at 12 noon PST.