I had lunch with a girl friend the other day. We see each other every few months for lunch, and we pick up right where we left off, catching up on kids, work, relationships, and sharing our hearts.

I cried with Marty when her marriage ended a few years ago. She cried with me when a daughter had a high-risk pregnancy and we weren't sure what was going to happen.

I've learned about how to cope with betrayal and a divorce and single parenting by walking alongside Marty. I watched her focus on her kids and keeping their home together. I got to share her journey when the kids grew up a little and didn't want her help. Instead of whining or being stuck, Marty focused on herself. She spent time alone, reading, studying, praying, and healing. When she felt ready, she began dating.

And now I'm watching her fall in love.

I have daughters. I've seen infatuation. I've seen immature and selfish love.

I'm married. I know a richer love that bears all things and works all things out.

As I listened to Marty talk about her new man, I had to reflect on the differences. She's giddy yes, but not like a teenager. She sees clearly that there will be problems to work out.

But she's found someone who wants the same things she does: a stable relationship with God at the center. A healthy family. A place to come home to, knowing you're loved and anticipated. Someone whose voice lifts when they realize it's you on the other end of the phone.

I rejoiced with Marty that just when she was ready for a relationship, she has one. And I gave thanks for the husband I have. Who always loves me. Always supports me. And whose voice still brings a smile to my lips.