The Eight-Cow Woman

There once was a town where men paid the dowries for their future wives in cows. The highest dowry that a man had ever paid a father for his daughter's hand in marriage was four cows.

One father in the town had a daughter who was very plain and unattractive, and most of the townspeople doubted if she would ever find a husband. However, one day a rich, successful rancher who owned many cattle saw the woman and fell in love with her. He went to the girl's father and began negotiations for the dowry. Everyone expected him to ask for a bargain, because no one had ever made an offer on her before, but he said, "I will pay you eight cows." They were shocked! But even more shocking was what happened next.

That homely girl became the most beautiful woman in town. Because her husband valued her, she began to carry herself differently. She stood straight and tall. She dressed well. Her whole countenance changed because of the value placed on her by someone who loved and cherished her.

As a man, your goal should be to make your wife feel cherished like this "eight-cow woman." Go after your wife as if she were the best catch in town, because she is, to you. Bless her in any way you can, and watch her flourish under the nurture of your love. If she likes gifts, give her gifts, and give her the kind she likes. Does she like flowers? A dinner out in a nice restaurant? A hike in the woods? A new ring? Or does she just want uninterrupted time every night to be alone with you?

"Love your wife as Christ loved the Church."(Ephesians 5:25)