Artwork by Careldewinter

“Still round the corner there may wait
A new road or a secret gate
And though I oft have passed them by
A day will come at last when I
Shall take the hidden paths that run
West of the Moon, East of the Sun.”

-J.R.R. Tolkien, The Return of the King

When Frodo sings these words on the way to the Grey Havens, he knows that he is about to leave Middle Earth, never to return. He takes in his surroundings. He kisses and thanks his friends. He knows what is about to happen. Many of us here on regular earth aren’t afforded the same opportunity.

I know the topic of death might seem out of place for a blog about romance, but I don’t think it needs to be. For Christians, the Bible is clear that death is only the beginning and is nothing to be feared. On the other hand, Jesus also points out that relationships will be different in heaven. I won’t be married to my wife after death.

I’m sure that the good news behind Jesus’ words will be clear in eternity, and I’m fairly certain that God knows what He’s doing. 1 Corinthians 13:12 says

“For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.”

So it’s a good bet that I will agree with the way things work once I get to heaven, and I know I’ll see Ashley there someday. But honestly, the thought of not being married in heaven is depressing to me at the moment.

I don’t want to take life for granted during our time on earth. I’m sure things will be so much better in heaven, but they also won’t be the same. Ashley and I won’t have theater dates with $7 movie nachos.  We won’t be spending an anniversary at a hotel on the beach. No more bowling or wishing on stars. All of these traditions we have will come to an end someday, and that really puts things in perspective.

So while I am looking forward to heaven, I don’t want to take what I have right now for granted. Earth isn’t just a waiting room. This life is beautiful and too short to be consumed with petty differences, arguments over money, or any of the other struggles that can consume our attention. Don’t let this life pass you by. We could turn onto the hidden paths at any moment.

Photo Credit: ronnielmills