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Alisandra Photography Blog

Well, as of Saturday, we’ve been married FIVE YEARS. Reading that back to myself sounds crazy. I think about how much has changed since we recessed down the aisle hand in hand. We’ve moved a few times, Chad has had a few job changes, we bought a house, gained new friends, made new best friends, traveled together, and we’ve watched my business grow.

Thinking about this, I can’t help but wonder what is on the horizon? What does God have in store? What blessings? What will He allow in our life – good or bad? Kids, a move, more travel, hardship? I don’t feel scared or anxious, I just wonder. I’ve never been good at answering the question, “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” Because I just don’t know what is next. The plans we make, we hold lightly knowing that God is, although consistent, unpredictable.

In 5 years of marriage, one thing I’ve learned when faced with changes is that my FIRST thought HAS to return to Chad. Every decision we make comes through the lens of what is best for each other. If I think, “I don’t want to,” before I think, “How does Chad feel about this,” then I’m already spiraling down to a place that is going to lead to a lot of tears. I want my first steps to be unselfish and OTHERS focused. Right now we’re in the slow process of some changes that could impact our life in Richmond in a big way, and that has been really cool to see how we handle this right around our 5 year anniversary.

…it’s not thinking more of myself or thinking less of myself, it is thinking of myself less…
~ Tim Keller

I’m not a big fan of vague posts that leave readers with questions, but at this point there is nothing to report. I write this to encourage you. If you’re in a place where you’re struggling with “me” vs. “us,” go with US. Or better yet, YOU. If both of you are thinking about the other, the freedom that comes from self-forgetfulness is powerful..