On Dec. 27, as I readied for Nate’s long-anticipated arrival, my thoughts were a mix of confusion and expectation. I prayed, asking God to make it a good weekend. And I pleaded with Him to let me know what He wanted for us in terms of any relationship. Lastly, I asked Him to take thoughts of my old boyfriend’s visit out of my mind so I could make an honest assessment of Nate.
From my journal:
Dec. 27, 1968 – When Nate walked in the door, I was surprised at how glad I was to see him. He was in shape and looked good. After dinner and a movie, we walked all over town in the beauty of a blizzard, holding hands. He asked me if I was willing to take off the glove on the hand he was holding, and he took his off, too. He said he wanted to touch my soft skin. I was pleased to be with him, and when he kissed me out there in the snow, I was surprised at my own willingness. We discussed the whole thing as it was happening. He’s definitely a different kind of boy.
He told me he was fairly sure we would be a good match in a marriage. I suppose we would. Our backgrounds are similar, family is important, and he loves children. He’s ambitious, intelligent, has his military situation under control, and is handsome. Of course marriage must include love, which is (as of yet) absent for me. But when I think of the different guys I’ve had in my life, I consider Nate in his own class.
Oct. 28, 1968 – Nate left today after presenting Mom with a two-pound box of chocolates. He’s got the etiquette all right. Bervin and Mary said they were impressed. I’ll admit… I was, too.
Back to the letters:
Dec.30, 1968 – Dear Meg. I really enjoyed being with you last weekend. I don’t know what the Lord will do about our relationship in the future, but I loved the way He guided it last weekend. Maybe we can discuss each other’s detailed reactions in later letters. And perhaps in person, when my finals are over in late January. Happy New Year 1969! Love, Nate
Jan. 2, 1969 – Dear Nate. After thinking it over, I’ve decided the smartest, safest thing for us to do about our relationship is to completely leave it in the hands of the Lord. Because of my experience with (my old boyfriend), I’ve decided to quit trying to handle my own fate. Anyway, would you like to go on a “prayer campaign” by praying 5 minutes every day that the Lord’s decision about you and I would have the greatest priority? I want to be extremely cautious as we sort out our feelings. A broken heart, either yours or mine, isn’t worth it. Please expound on your honest feelings.
Jan. 5, 1969 – Dear Meg. Yes, prayer is the best course for us… solemn requests for divine assistance. I have prayed for you many times, and now I will pray for us. My finals end the 17th, but I must stay here until the 23rd when undergrad exams end. The Head Resident might let me away for the 18th. I would like to come to Wilmette. How does that sound? Answer very good. And keep praying. Nate.
Jan. 7, 1969 – Dear Nate. Yes, I would like you to come again. Maybe you could visit me while I’m teaching. The children would love it. Or, if you can’t come here, I could come to Champaign. Maybe you’d better give me a phone number where I can reach you, if need be.
“Be kind to one another.” (Ephesians 4:32)