Only the Beginning

My Inspiration

Teryn came down with his first cold this week. It didn’t last long, thankfully, but it was a new experience for all of us. The first day of sickness, I woke up and showered to start the day but never got around to drying my hair, much less styling it. You can imagine I didn’t find time to do my make up either. Another one of those “naked days” =0) Between housework, managerial duties, and most importantly Teryn, I made no time for myself.

I saw Tyson for about 2 hours in between his classes and work that afternoon, and when he returned from work at 10:30 that night, the only change in my appearance was my hair pulled back in a ponytail. I smiled when he walked in the door and with a sarcastic voice I said, “don’t worry, I didn’t touch my hair or do my make up at all today.” He came to me with a smile on his face and said, “you look really good,” followed by a kiss. I knew he meant it.

The night went on as usual- -he showered while I put some dinner together for him, and then we chatted until bedtime. And you know what? We were both more twitterpated and giddy than we were the day before- -when my hair and makeup were done.

I’m very blessed to have a husband that loves me regardless of my hair and make up. That’s the kind of guy every girl looks for, right? “I want someone who loves me for me.” And most men do when they get to know what their women are like on the inside.

But Tyson is more than that.

Tyson APPRECIATES when I do take the time for my hair and make up. He doesn’t pressure me or expect me to “look good,” but he is grateful when I do. I know too many women who let themselves go because their husbands love them no matter what they look like. That their husbands feel that way is wonderful, but I’m sad for the women who give up trying to look good for their husbands.

Some may disagree with the idea that relationships change with appearance, but I agree with the idea wholeheartedly. A slightly different subject matter, but nonetheless applicable: Did you know that a make up class is offered at the MTC and all sister missionaries are required to attend before they enter the mission field? Too many sisters think that their 18 months of service will be a break from having to look good for men. Sure, they aren’t out serving to turn heads or get dates, but they do need to be presentable to anyone and everyone they come in contact with. Whether he’s a homeless man under a bridge or the king of the country. The class is given to remind them who they’re representing and that they need to do it well. Everything begins with presentation. A slice of raspberry cheesecake served on a garbage can lid is going to be accepted differently than the same slice of raspberry cheesecake served on a clean dish with a little chocolate drizzled on top. I think we can apply this concept to many things in life.

So I’m sure I’ll have many more of my “naked days,” and I am grateful for a husband who loves me for me. But I’m especially grateful for a husband who appreciates my beauty and inspires me to keep myself up.

I’m a better person because of him.

My husband. My inspiration.