We Have More Money Than You Do …

This past weekend, my wife and I cruised with fellow LOVESTRONG Marriage couples to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this ministry. Dulce and I have been a part of it since 2018, and it has allowed us to spend a ton more time together … so definitely a blessing for us.

We sailed on Royal Caribbean, and the number of days were perfect. We had two days at sea, and our port day was in Cozumel, Mexico.

If you are wondering … Yes … the food was terrific! The specialty restaurants are affordable, especially for lunch, and the food was abundant!

Even though I am not much of a dessert person, I had my share! The banana split at Jamie’s Italian is unbelievable! Crazy good!

Okay … back to the topic here …

The Super Cruisers!

One morning while in the dining room, we met an elderly couple having breakfast. They were seated next to us, so we struck up a conversation …

ME: “How are you enjoying the cruise?

LADY: “Oh … we are doing just fine.”

MAN: “Yes … this is our 201st cruise, and it might be our last!”

LADY: “Wayne says stuff like that. He’s 92-years-old, and he sometimes forgets what he said just 2 minutes ago! I’m 90-years-old, and I can keep doing this awhile longer.”

ME: “Wow! That is a ton of cruising! My wife and I have taken the family on cruises but definitely nothing close to that number!”

LADY: “Well … young man … we have more money than you do.”

This last comment was said in a quiet tone, and I had to laugh upon hearing it …

ME: “Yes, ma’am! I am sure you do!”

As I reflect on this conversation, I find it refreshing that this couple, after 72 years of marriage, is still committed to spending time with each other.

My wife and I had several conversations with them, and they were always friendly with us.

God, Love, and Laughter

On the last day of the cruise, this same couple participated in the Love and Marriage show, and it was obvious they had done it before!

Think about it … 201 cruises on Royal Caribbean! ‘Most years married’ was an automatic qualifier for the game, and at 72 years, they had no competition. The next closest couple had only been married for 58 years!

When they were asked what their secret was to seven decades of marriage, the lady said …

“Really … it’s a simple formula … God, love, and laughter!”

For me, this is yet another example of keeping things simple. I think any relationship can prosper when we put God first and we mix in love and laughter.

This is true for situations in my life that are both simple and complicated. The point here is that my response to a difficult scenario can be as simple as a heartfelt prayer.

So, what did I learn on this cruise … God, love, laughter … and they have a lot more money than we do!

Works for me!

See you next week, my friends!

Homework Inquiry

During the next week, here’s your homework inquiry: How will you simplify your life?