Twofold Definition
Love is a “double duty” word. It is both a noun and a verb. Love as a verb matters more than the noun; it’s the actions that put the feelings in place. For Kim and Krickitt this means spending time together and creating new memories as a couple and as a family (they have two children now), which helps them get through new highs and lows. Together they travel, serve others and give back to the community, but they both realize there is also a need to foster individual interests.
The Carpenters realize that just because they had challenges at the beginning of their marriage doesn’t mean they will never experience new challenges; in fact, getting through those challenges as a support system to each other strengthens their marriage and family unit. During Krickitt’s recovery, Kim was able to lean on the memories of their shared past. Krickitt didn’t have that luxury, but she was able to lean on the support of family, friends and her faith. The support of others is something that Kim and Krickitt still seek out, whether it is their extended family, friends or their marriage and family therapist.
Kim explained that loving intentionally doesn’t mean they never disagree; it means they make the intentional decision to lay down their individual pride, and bring in the wisdom of an unbiased observer to aid in the resolution of the struggles they are enduring. Intentional love isn’t reactionary; it’s proactive.
