“So where is that harmony, sweet harmony?” (Elvis Costello, What’s so funny ‘bout peace, love and understanding?)
I surely was failing miserably.
Sitting on the couch with my musically gifted husband, I fought back hot tears of shame. I couldn’t carry the tune. I wanted to run and hide.
It had seemed like a great idea. As he played “Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme,” I listened with all my might. How did Simon and Garfunkel weave their voices so beautifully? Why couldn’t I do the same thing? I wanted to be the perfect, musical wife to complement my talented husband. Jeff tried to be patient, but I wanted to give up. How unfit I felt as his accompanist.
Decades have passed. I’m glad my worst fears were false. He never took his eyes off our love. He didn’t go looking for a better singer. Jeff loved me as I was.
Harmony: (1a)the combination of simultaneous musical notes in a chord
(2a) a pleasing arrangement of parts (b) agreement, accord (c) internal calm
(Merriam-Webster definition)
Harmony comes in more ways than one. Each of us brings different perspectives, strengths, and gifts to a marriage. We are not the same. The Spirit helps us use our contrasts to create a beautiful strength.
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3, NIV).
Maybe I don’t sing a beautiful harmony to Jeff’s songs. I do, however, teach our kids, care for him in illness, and share a godly perspective when he needs encouragement. I suppose, after all these years, I have learned to harmonize with my husband.
The result is a blending of worship to the One who most loves hearing our songs.
Well written! I love the paragraph about “Harmony comes in more ways than one.” Along with what you wrote, let me add that we must be willing to change as time changes us.
Blessings to you and yours!
Marie
This is a great post. It’s a good reminder that we each have something to contribute.