not faint of heart

he travels through the cold
to play legos with the little ones.
he washed all the dishes by hand,
even after he was hurt deeply by my words.
it was his way of responding
 with gentle forgiveness.
He methodically brushes off the piles of wet snow
blanketing our van,
before working on his own vehicle.
We stand around unaware,
chatting with friends in the warm gym.
He prays for us faithfully,
keeps in touch,
encourages us to stay out a little longer
as he tucks our babes away for
the night.
he is a definition of loyalty 
and faithfulness.
our 4 year old son 
considers him 
a best friend.
integrity and kindness 
cloak him,
he loves freely
without expecting much in return.
I notice the honor
in which he carries life out. 
He has always dealt 
with me,
as his brother and companion's wife,
with utmost 
purity and honor.
[let us not pretend this is not 
a potentially dangerous area, 
or that we are immune]
I am thankful he is 
ever so careful 
with me,
if his interaction with me 
was held up
to the light,
you would find no darkened
questions.
For that, 
i am humbled and thankful,
he will forever hold my respect.
J, you need to know what a gift you are.
As you wait for a mate,
as I know your heart does yearn,
the Father is doing so much with you,
refining you, 
and gently drawing you more to 
Himself.
But boy, 
does He shine through you!
You radiate His steadfastness,
His beauty, and strength.
You stand as a man
among men,
and we pray 
a suitable mate 
finds you whole 
awakened to love.
Do not lose heart,
kind warrior.
Just know as you wait,
we are receiving blessing after blessing
of your generous friendship
and we hold it with 
highest regard.