When I Think Of You

About Lynn ---

How do you express your feelings for the most meaningful person in your life? How do you encapsulate the depths of knowing that person so intimately? I don't know if it's possible, but I will do my best to describe what I feel and know about Lynn Ray. Today, my wife and best friend have officially turned 40!! 

In one of my all-time favorite movies, "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty," there's a quote that I believe perfectly captures the essence of my wife: 

"Beautiful things don't ask for attention."

When I think of Lynn, I think of beauty, inside and out. Let me explain.

I believe it truly takes a lot of time to understand a person's true character. I've been married to Lynn for over 17 years now and have the privilege of witnessing her life up close. I can confidently say, what you see is what you get, in public and private. Her inner beauty mirrors her outer, and with age, it only grows more profound. 

Lynn is genuinely loving, kind, and humble. Her qualities are not flashy, yet everything about her is deeply attractive. Her values shape her life and are at the core of her identity. Her beauty is natural and effortless. It is not something she tries to portray; she doesn't need to. 

She is a person of unwavering, deep character. She is quietly confident, a trait perhaps overlooked by some. She doesn't seek validation from others; she shies away from superficial recognition, focusing instead on what truly matters. Her kindness, empathy, resilience, and love shine naturally in her interactions. She is the definition of selfless. Her goodness is what I fell in love with. 

She also has a way of simplifying life's complexities. She balances me out this way. She often poses a straightforward yet profound question that we both use to self-assess; "am I enjoyable to be around?" This perspective is a significant reason our marriage is so enjoyable. Sometimes, it really can be that simple. I can wholeheartedly say she is, and she pushes me to be my best self. While no one is without flaws, she remains perfect to me in her imperfections. Her intentions are always pure, even when conflict may be necessary. Though she may not seek it, I hope she always feels the rich love she deserves.

To Lynn ---

To celebrate today, your 40th birthday, I want to express my love for the person that you are. In a world where so many seek attention and recognition, you do not. You embody a quiet, unassuming grace, conviction, and confidence that doesn't beg for attention. You are beautiful, naturally, effortlessly. Your authenticity is expressed through your actions, words, and interactions with others, and I am fortunate enough to be on the receiving end of this daily. You earn respect and admiration simply by being you. 

Your kindness is not forced; it comes from a genuine place within you. Your humility isn't an act; it's a fundamental part of your character. You are also strong and will fight for what is right, even against your nature, to always seek peace. Thanks, New York 😜. 

I am thankful you are the one I experienced this one life with. I am lucky to be your husband and best friend and have shared the last 17+ years with you. We've literally made a lifetime of memories together ten times over. You are my freckle mate, always down for an adventure. One of my favorite things you ask me often is, "What are you thinking about Shaun Ray?" You genuinely see me; you are caring. It's just who you are. Love flows out of you.

Thank you for being a role model for our kids in a world so starved of them. As they've aged, I believe they are starting to understand how fortunate they are to have you as their mom. 

In preparation for this birthday, it's been easy to see that you are loved far beyond what you realize. You've taught me to celebrate life's milestones, especially those you love. Well, I hope you feel celebrated today because, more than anyone, you deserve to know how much you are loved! 

You know how I love to always bring up movies in our conversations. Well, let me reference one now. Remember that scene in "City of Angels" where Nicholas Cage's character asks the young girl whom he's escorting to Heaven about her favorite thing in life? She simply but with confidence responds with "pajamas." If I were asked that question without hesitation, my answer would be you. Lynn, you are my favorite thing, not just because of the life we share but for the person you are! 

You are beautiful, all of you. 

Happy 40th!