Through the eyes of my daughter

What a treat to be able to eat out for lunch.  The restaurant was packed and the wait was long.  There were 4 empty seats at the bar.  With it being only Aurora, Samuel, and I we sat up there.  We didn’t have to wait and the food was great.

My MarkE, the best chef around!

During our meal a gentleman came in and took the last seat at the bar beside Samuel.  I couldn’t help but watch him occasionally as I turned and spoke with Samuel.  Let me explain before you get the wrong idea.  His manners were impeccable.  He sat with poise.  He was clean shaven, dressed for summer his clothes were crisp and well pressed.  He spoke with kindness to the waiter and didn’t flirt with her at all.  When his meal came, he quickly removed his hat, and bowed his head in prayer.

I was taken aback.  I all of a sudden felt like I was sitting with royalty and gave myself a “spot” check.  How was I sitting?  Slouched.  What were my actions showing to those in the restaurant that unbeknownst to me were watching? Do I portray that I too am royalty?  That I am a daughter of the most High King?

As I engaged in fellowship with my children, I couldn’t help but wonder what this man’s wife was like.  I imagined her beautiful inside and out, and that when they are apart, that she carries herself with as much grace, respect, and peace, that her husband does.  Is that what the Bride of Christ looks like to the ones that are watching?

I was thankful that this man chose to sit beside us…

The minute he left I asked Aurora if she noticed his mannerisms.  I spoke my thought aloud to her, wondering what his wife looked like.  Her comment to me left me aghast.

“He was probably gay.”  Stunned and in his defense I reminded her of his wedding ring.  She saw that it didn’t mean anything, he could be married to a man.

That thought not once crossed my mind.  Growing up I was taught marriage was between a man and woman and that was that.  There were no questions about it.  The fact that she perceived him that way made me sad.  My heart breaks for her and this generation of children that are growing up in a nation that allows marriages of the same sex.  What happened to the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman?

I’m going to stop right there.

It is my prayer that marriage would be held in honor by all.

My question for you ~ How do you portray your spouse when you aren’t together?  How should you?