I came downstairs, tired and grumpy as I always am in the morning. I approached my kitchen counter for my first stop. As I began the routine of making the kids breakfast, packing lunches and making my coffee, I glanced down at his note.
I blushed. I smiled. I sighed.
My daughter came beside me and saw the note as I held it to my heart. My man leaves me notes. Not just on Valentine's Day, but almost every day, because he knows that is my true love language. He's not a man of many words, and yet he creates them for me because that's what love does...
Love stretches beyond and above. Love honors and nourishes and gives. He does that.
I've saved every little post-it note and every single card he has given to me. Every single one. Boxes full. Words mean something to me, so he gives them freely and I soak in his love. My daughter sees his notes all the time, and I love that she does. It's an ongoing reflection of what true love is all about. I want her to truly understand this kind of love, and expect the same in her life. Someday, I want her to find love just like this.
"He never forgets, does he mom?"
"No. Never. And I pray that one day, you will find the man who loves you like your father loves me."
A man who takes time to feed your heart and honor your dreams. A man who nurtures your weaknesses and carries your burdens. A man who tells you over and over again that you're beautiful. A man that sees beyond your flaws and embraces your quirks. A man who puts your needs first and his second. A man who praises your efforts and accepts your failings. A man who holds you when you crumble and raises you when you desperately need the lift. A man who forgives your mistakes and remembers your gifts. A man who listens to your thoughts and cherishes your perspective. A man who realizes your potential and admires your purpose. A man who trusts you with his vulnerabilities and realizes his insecurities. A man of honesty and strength and integrity who can lead his family with faith and perseverance. A man of deep abiding passion for all he holds dear. A man that never gives up or lets go, because sometimes life gets hard. A man who realizes his worth and values yours. A man who sacrifices much so that you can have plenty. A man who loves you as you are and celebrates as you grow. A man who is committed and dedicated to loving you.
Oh, precious daughter. Don't settle for anything less.
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A version of this post was originally published over at TheMomCafe.com.
Chris Carter is a stay at home mom who blogs at TheMomCafe.com with hopes to encourage mothers through her humor, inspiration and faith.