I typed up some more, and very pleased with a revision I did in a scene between Jack/Val. I think it shows her vulnerability more, knowing at some point if she and Jack keep going on the path of reconciliation, intimacy, in particular sexual intimacy, will be required.

She wants that, and is also scared at the same time, due to their past. But in this scene, she sees more of the real Jack – not the fake identity of the cheater, the addict – the true him. Part of the boy she fell in love with, but a man who is also growing, discovering what’s important to him, and finding his place in this world. (Queue the Michael W. Smith song “My Place in This World”, which is the perfect song for Jack, and I realize something we all want. To be where we’re supposed to be, doing what we’re supposed to be doing. Thank you, Jesus!)

I’ve tried to do as much research as possible into marriage, affairs and reconciliation. And what I’ve watched/read/learned, was sad and also inspiring, to see how God has restored previously broken and damaged marriages.

I’ve realized, ironically, just at this moment while typing up this post, that is a big part of this story, I wanted to share and give hope. That marriages can be saved, can be restored, and transformed into a beautiful love story – especially when Jesus is in the mix of it, and working on both parties!

One of the websites & social media, I discovered that was a great help, and I still watch some of their reels/videos, is Unrelenting Pursuit. I first heard Brad & Lisa’s story from another YT channel that had them as guest, and then I checked out their website, listened to their podcast to hear both sides of their story. I highly recommend checking them out, it’s so encouraging and beautiful how their marriage has been restored.

I’m also reading a book, “Married People: Staying Together in the Age of Divorce” by Francine Klagsbrun, that has been informative and insightful as well.

Not only did I want to write this realistically, with the characters and their emotions/feelings, but I’ve discovered that I am learning things too before I am even married!

Marriage between a man and a woman, is a beautiful, God intended merging. I look forward in the very near future to experiencing this love, and helping to further the Kingdom of God with my husband.

• Unrelenting Pursuit
• Unrelenting Pursuit: Brad & Lisa’s Story on YT
• Married People: Staying Together in The Age of Divorce by Francine Klagsbrun

My Place in This World: