Introduction to Orthodoxy

Complements of marriage

Posted by smithakd on 2 February, 2011 · Comments Off 

There are two things that give me great joy: when evangelism is being done, and when charity is being done.  The launch of FOCUS North America’s centre in Pittsburgh is something that I have no vested interest in, personally – I live a long way away from Pittsburgh, after all! – but it gave me great joy to see.

A lot of the focus of the coverage of the event was on Troy Polamalu, who I’m told is an amazing NFL player for the Pittsburgh Steelers.  Again, not a sport that I’m familiar with, but clearly a big thing, and it’s amazing to see how Troy perpetually seems to have his head firmly on his shoulders – something that he would ascribe to his connection with a nearby Greek Orthodox monastery – a trait that many other sportsmen seem to lack.

But perhaps what impressed me most was that when looking through the pictures, one will struggle to find Troy and his wife, Theodora, in many photos – the photos that one does find are of them in what are clearly the official photos in groups of people or important dignitaries.

Simple reason: they were doing different work.  They were working together towards a common vision; and because that vision was common, they didn’t need to be beside each other the whole night.  They just worked together.

Troy signed footballs and jerseys, providing thousands of dollars towards homeless and needy people in the Pittsburgh area.  Theodora gave the keynote presentation, which from all accounts was as informative as it was inspirational.  Clearly, they had individual talents and skills which they were able to give to FOCUS’ new centre for helping the poor in Pittsburgh.

At least for me, it’s important to realise that we are not all equipped to do the same thing.  I’ve looked at people – those who do charity work, who comfort the homeless and the like – and wondered why I can’t do that.  The answer is frustrating – whether it’s because I haven’t tried to practise that skill, or because I’m just not that person…either way, I can’t be everything and do everything.

In a marriage, thankfully, I don’t have to.  I’ve read books for days on end – and can write them, too – but I certainly can’t claim to have the patience and love that my wife does.  We can do so much more than both of us individually…and I suspect that’s true for a lot of people.

How does your spouse or partner complement you?  Let me hear about it in the comments!