January 4, 2000

Ten years ago today I was in a crowded computer lab in Rexburg, ID. It was the first day of school after Christmas break. I was recovering from mononucleosis and didn't know what to do with my life. I went to the computer lab to write a paper. Instead, I opened up my email account and found an unexpected email from a dear friend. Only I didn't think we were friends anymore because I had already broke his heart. When I saw his name in my inbox, I felt a mixture of emotions: excitement, happiness, comfort, and curiosity. But mostly, seeing his name made me feel like I was home. (Only at the time I didn't realize that all those feelings were LOVE.)

I read his email while tears formed in my eyes. It wasn't very long-- it got straight to the point. He listed reasons why he loved me, the little things that many of my close friends didn't even know. He told me he admired me for wanting to take over the world. He told me to get off my high horse and give him a chance. He wanted to be more than just friends.

I printed the email and walked home reading it over and over again. It was cold outside, but reading his words made me feel warm inside. I wasn't sure what to do. I didn't want to lead him on if I couldn't commit. I didn't want to hurt him. I didn't want to lose his friendship. But something inside was telling me this was worth giving it another shot. I was not the same girl who turned him down countless times before. I had changed. Everything seemed good and I had a feeling it was going to turn out okay.

When I arrived at my apartment, I was relieved to see that none of my roommates were home. It was quiet. I went straight to my bedroom and knelt down next my bed. I prayed out loud. I don't know why I felt the need to ask if this was the guy I was going to marry-- it wasn't like we had ever kissed (or even been on a second date.) But I needed to know NOW if it was going to work out. Because if it wasn't, I couldn't go through with it. The minute the words left my lips: "Is HE the man I am going to marry?" a feeling came over me. It was the strongest, clearest answer I had ever received to a prayer. It was much more than a YES... it was as if someone said to me, "Why has it taken you THIS LONG to ask?" I was filled with peace. I was excited and confused and a bit taken aback, but I wasn't scared. I knew that Aaron was going to be my husband, but I didn't realize how lucky I was. Only after being married to him (and watching him raise my sons) do I realize the magnitude of that single decision. Lucky doesn't even begin to cover it.

Why am I sharing such a personal {sacred} story? Because 2010 is the year of answered prayers. Ten years ago, I offered a sincere prayer. The answer I received immediately after changed the direction of my life. It's amazing that God-- who is busy with a bazillion other (more important) things-- would care about a young college girl and her confusing love life. It's amazing that ten years later, He still cares about me and my day-to-day chaos. How grateful I am that He listens. I know without a doubt that He answers.