Shownotes
Episode 012 Marriage Series (20-40 years) Part 3 with Terry & Helen Taylor

Terry is a man of few words and a good listener. Helen is a helper by nature. 

Terry: gently communicates to Helen to remember healthy boundaries so as not to become overcomitted. Remember what’s important and keep a proper perspective.

They supported each other with career changes:  Helen returned to school to finish her degree in teaching. She went on to get her Masters degree. Terry transitioned from farming to teaching then transitioned into retirement.

Terry: “Sometimes you can’t see the reason for things but if you pray about it and keep a positive outlook you’ll see God start to open windows and doors that otherwise weren’t there.”

Throughout the course of their marriage, they focus on their faith and family and made them priorities. Lynn remembers game nights and holidays, ball schedules, and just being together.

As parents, they were always supportive and open with communicating love verbally and physically to each other and to their children. They would tell us they love us and are proud of us. The provided a loving and stable home, one that their children and grandchildren love to come home to and visit.

Their example in marriage helped shape what I want in my marriage and home.

Helen attributes her being able to have a calm perceptive to Terry saying, “It’s gonna be alright. The sky could be falling but if Terry says it’s gonna be alright then it’s gonna be alright.” He has a quiet confidence and assurance that settles her.

Health obstacles: within nine months, Helen, Terry, and Helen’s parents were all diagnosed with cancer. The embodied their vows “for better or worse.”

Rather than argue or debate they would table discussions in the heat of the moment with Terry saying “we’ll see about that.” And when they would come back to it, it never seemed as big as it was at the time.

Gove Provides: Helen remembers, “Terry won a generator right before the storm in March that left us without power for a whole week. We can ask God to provide specific things but sometimes the truth is. why tie His hands? He wants to give us immeasurably more than what we can think or imagine.”

Generational advice: Sometimes the squeaky wheel gets replaced. (Milton)
We realize the importance of strong family ties and not having to get to know loved ones all over again because stories keep them in the forefront of their mind.
Helen always remembers being taught to be there for each other, having faith, and watching their lives being lived. Terry agrees, “Family ties is one of the most important things. You always have someone to back you up.”

“Follow the money” (Hunter) and you’ll see what’s what with who’s telling the truth and who’s just after the money. 

Actions speak louder than words.

Time really does fly faster than you can dream. Make the most of every day. That doesn’t mean packing things into everyday, but show you care.

Epitaph: Helen “She loved deeply and had a servant’s heart.
Terry “Rest in peace.”

Quote: I don’t really have a favorite place. I have favorite people. And wherever my people are, that’s my favorite place.

When meeting someone new, Helen’s Daddy (Milton) would ask “Who are your people?”

What they want their grandkids to know:
Papa - “Always hustle.”
Grandma - “Grandma loves you.”

Advice for couples in marriage: “Hold tight to each other. Things are changing fast. It’s going to continue to get better, and it’s going to be different. But just continue to hang on to each other for the wild ride.”