Age is not a number, but a state of mind.  Unknown

Have you thought about how you will embrace the aging process? 

Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life. (Prov 16:31; NIV)

Sixty five years ago today, Gerald Lee Graham came into the world, as a birthday gift to his own father, no less.  What a joy and delight it is for me to honor this humble and gentle man on his 65th birthday.  He does epitomize the word “gentleman”, by the way.  The true meaning of that word became quite clear to me soon after we were married. 

Many of you know Jerry only from reading his writings in the Daily Grams.  And there are many of our readers who know the man in a personal way.  I believe you’ll concur with me that “To know him is to love him.”  Jerry is the more quiet one in our family.  In a group setting, he’ll sit back, listen and observe.  He’ll make comments when he feels he has something of value to contribute.  Several friends have made the comment that Jerry is much like E.F. Hutton.  When he speaks, people listen.   He is known for his wisdom and counsel.

Jerry is a man of principle and integrity.  He’s also a servant.  Through the long years of my being ill, he continually exhibited unconditional love for me through many acts of kindness and service that many men would find extremely difficult.  Since I was unable to shop in malls or stores, I sewed most of my clothing.  That meant that Jerry learned how to shop in a fabric store.  He learned to choose a pattern, buy the fabric and all the notions necessary for me to sew a dress, skirt or outfit.  He also had to do all of the other shopping for the household.  Never once did I hear him complain or utter disgust over the major burden that my being ill caused our family. 

We continue to grow young together.  At 65, he’s undoubtedly in better physical condition than he was when he was in his forties.  He continues to challenge himself in his daily workouts at the gym, lifting more weight and setting new high-water marks for himself.  He still maintains a size 34 waist; the size he wore when we were married over twenty-five years ago. 

Jerry is also the consummate learner.  There was a time when I lovingly quipped that he had been in school over half of our married life.  Our number of years being married has now surpassed that figure.  But Jerry will never stop learning.  He was born to learn and to teach others what he’s learning.  Many men think of retirement when they turn 65.  I doubt that my husband will ever retire.  He’ll continue to learn and pass on to all who will listen about his latest study.

Lastly, Jerry certainly does model a Christ-like behavior.  He honors and esteems me as his wife and is quick to forgive me when I blow it.  There is no doubt in my mind that he would quickly “lay down his life for me.”  What a joy and privilege it is for me to celebrate this 65th birthday with my beloved husband!  Happy Birthday Honey! 

If Jerry has been a blessing in your life, I invite you to send him a Birthday greeting.

Prayer Power
Father, we thank You for the gift of life and I especially thank You for the gift of Jerry’s life.   Lord, I pray abundant blessings on this man who has enriched my life in innumerable ways and touched the lives of many throughout this country and even around the world. 

 Link Of The Day
Jerry Turns 65

Blessings on you, dear Jerry as you celebrate this your 65th birthday.