Question for today(Please read this carefully )

Pls Read:
A man  before  leaving  for  work, left  a  letter on the  dining  table  for  his wife. Chores around  the house kept the woman from  seeing the  letter until about 12 noon. When she  finally  chanced on  the letter  she was  so  excited to  see  that her husband had taken time to write  her a letter.  She kissed the  paper when she saw  “my beautiful  wife”  at the  top,  hugged  it when  she  saw  “I  love you with all my heart”  at the bottom, and  sniffed  it  when she  realized it smelled of her husband’s  perfume.  

Out of excitement,  and without  even  bothering to read the  content  of  the letter, she made up  her  mind to cook him  his favorite  meal for dinner that night. She quickly  rushed  to  the  kitchen and got  to  work. After  cooking and setting the  table, she  went to the wash room  and  took  a shower, put  on  her most attractive  night gown  and  dressed  the bed.

Just  as  she was  about to  finish laying  the bed her  husband walked into the house. When  she heard him come  in she  went  out to  welcome  him. To her surprise, her husband was  very  furious when  he  saw her. She became very confused and  asked  why he  wouldn’t  even let  her welcome  him  with  a hug but  instead have that  angry look  on his  face.

The husband  asked,  “Did you read the  letter  I  left  you on  the table?”
The  woman responded, “Oh yes I saw  it.  That’s  why I  went through  all  the trouble to  prepare  your favorite  meal  for you. Thank  you  so  much honey, it  was  sweet  of  you.”
She  leaned  in to give  him a  kiss  but  he  pushed  her away to her  surprise.

The husband  went  on,  “If you did,  then  why haven’t  you done any  of the things  I instructed you to  do?”
The man went  inside and  came  out  again quickly  with an already  packed suit  case. He headed  straight for the door and said  to his wife, “See  you in  7  days.”

The  woman stood there confused  but before she could utter a word, the  door had slammed behind him.

She  went  back  to the dining  table to  take a  second look  at  the letter.

It  read……
My  beautiful wife, My company  has  asked 4 colleges and  myself to  go  on a seven  day trip  to  Dubai for a training  program. They said  that  we  can  bring along  our  wives and I  thought this will be the best  opportunity  for us to  have the honeymoon we  never  did  after we  got married.
I have already packed a  suit  case  for myself,  so please pack yours. Our flight leaves  at  exactly  7 pm so  I will be home at  6 o’clock  for us  to  go to the  airport.  No need  to cook dinner  since there will  be  food on the plane. Just  be prepare  to  go  as soon as I get  back. Please be ready before I get back so we don't miss the flight. I Love you with  all  my  heart.

If you were this woman, what will you do ?

Let me be the first to comment, hmmm..if this happened to me I'll feel really bad and try and apologise to my husband and I'll book a flight to meet up with him in Dubai.... (Is my answer resonsable enough??)
Let me see your comment guys....

Brad Pitt has one big fear post Angelina Jolie divorce

Ex-couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie
One month has already passed since Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie shock the media with their split. Since then, Brad has been forced to express what he feels despite reports that he is into alcohol and drugs, which are somewhat claimed as the reason for the divorce
According to sources close to Pitt, this is the most difficult point in his life that's why he is doing all his best and is really cooperating with Angelina Jolie just to see his kids.
But the actor has one big fear regarding the effects of this divorce and this has something to do with his kids. He has this feeling that his children are slipping out of his knowledge. This simply breaks his heart and devastates him completely.
According to yahoo.com , he is spending all the day and even half the night just to call and text people in order to get help and advice.
It can be recalled that in the course of the divorce, Angelina Jolie has been granted the temporary custody of Maddox, Pax, Zahara, Shiloh, and twins Vivienne and Knox. The actor is really upset and shattered by this and that he is very much willing to do everything just to prove that he also deserves joint custody of their six kids.
This divorce has really struck home for Brad Pitt and that he realizes that his children are the most important things in his life.
He doesn't mind whatever happens to his career or anything because being with his kids is all that matters for him at this moment.
Meanwhile, it has been reported also that Brad is doing what he is told to do in order to show his dedication to the family. He would do anything just to see his kids and that he will do his best to boost his chances by acting like a model citizen.
It seems like Brad Pitt's life is on hold until he gets his children back.
Brad Pitt was really devastated with what this divorce has caused him and Angelina Jolie is said to be rethinking her ways on how to deal with him in court.

Music is best therapy for bad break up,so here are the Best Breakup Songs of all times

Listen to the Ultimate Breakup Playlist
There are different ways to handle a breakup, depending on the situation, of course. But whether you're wallowing in tears because you got blindsided or giving out high fives for finally letting go of the jerk, one thing's for sure: music makes it all better. Here are
50 songs for every type of split.
1. "Since U Been Gone," Kelly Clarkson
2. "Forget You," Cee Lo Green
3. "Irreplaceable," Beyoncé
4. "Don't Speak," No Doubt
5. "Cry Me a River," Justin Timberlake
6. "Tainted Love," Soft Cell
7. "You Oughta Know," Alanis Morissette
8. "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together," Taylor Swift
9. "Stronger," Britney Spears
10. "Burn," Usher
11. "Someone Like You," Adele
12. "Smile," Lily Allen
13. "Tears Dry On Their Own," Amy Winehouse
14. "So What," Pink
15. "Roses," Outkast
16. "Fighter," Christina Aguilera
17. "My Favorite Mistake," Sheryl Crow
18. "I'm Gonna Be Alright," Jennifer Lopez
19. "Goodbye to You," Michelle Branch
20. "Too Little Too Late," JoJo
21. "I Hate This Part," The Pussycat Dolls
22. "Gives You Hell," The All-American Rejects
23. "Before He Cheats," Carrie Underwood
24. "Against All Odds," Phil Collins
25. "Mr. Brightside," The Killers
26. "Single Ladies," Beyoncé
27. "I Knew You Were Trouble," Taylor Swift
28. "Love Lost," Temper Trap
29. "Ain't No Sunshine," Bill Withers
30. "The Scientist," Coldplay
31. "Somebody That I Used to Know," Gotye
32. "You Were Meant For Me," Jewel
33. "Don't You Want Me," The Human League
34. "Heartbreaker," Pat Benatar
35. "Pictures of You," The Cure
36. "Skinny Love," Bon Iver
37. "Nothing Compares 2 U," Sinead O'Connor
38. "I Want You Back," Jackson 5
39. "Part of Me," Katy Perry
40. "My Immortal," Evanescence
41. "I Will Survive," Gloria Gaynor
42. "Heartless," Kanye West
43. "Bye Bye Bye," *NSYNC
44. "Ex-Factor," Lauryn Hill
45. "Everybody Hurts," R.E.M.
46. "End of the Road," Boyz II Men
47. "Un-Break My Heart," Toni Braxton
48. "Always Be My Baby," Mariah Carey
49. "Strong Enough," Cher
50. "Mama's Broken Heart," Miranda Lambert
Source:popsugar.com

wow.... Check this out,Falz and simi are really a couple.(see photos to prove)

– Rapper Falz may be having secret love affair with X3M Music singer Simi

 – The pair has been spotted together in recent times during and after performances

 – Though Falz’s not confirmed their affair in any interview, his gesture via Instagram on Wednesday, May 4 says a lot about their relationship Rapper Folarin ‘Falz’ Falana has sparked off more speculations that he is having an affair with singer Simi after he posted a photo on Instagram on Wednesday, May 4. 

The kiss emoji following the post says a lot about the relationship between both entertainers. Recall that in April 2015 Falz spoke to Channels TV on several issues concerning his career, creativity as well as relationship with the X3m Music singer. Folarin has made several hit songs over the last few years and one conspicuous character in his music videos is X3M pop singer Simi with whom he made Soldier not to forget he blessed her song Jamb Question prior to this time.

Hmmmm,what are this two up to ?

This two talented Nigerian artists have been breaking the Internet and putting all of us in suspense,Are they cooking up a new song or songs or maybe they are actually an item. Well,we have to wait to hear from them what is really going on, so you all should try and chill and wait till that finally day they let us know what's going on.....See more photos....

They have also been spotted hanging out at several functions during and after performances but he insists there is nothing romantic going on between them. He said of their relationship in the Channels interview: “At this current moment we are not dating but you never know what the future holds. I will just leave it there.”

However, with the new picture it is safe to say there’s something going on between both musicians. On her part, Simi has been linked with YBNL singer Adekunle Gold several times in the past but she refuses to confirm this whenever asked.

Falz is a Nigerian rapper, song writer and brand ambassador. His father is a respected Nigerian lawyer and Human Rights Activist.

This wedding decor is so heavenly

Wow...The decor is onpoin, people are really getting very creative  !  @lolabunny0116 and her honnieeee  surrounded with flowers and ofcourse feathersss!!!!
Shot by @oye_diran Floral design and production by @Lilyvevents venue

How Long Should You Wait to Have Sex In A New Relationship?

Some people will prefer to wait till their wedding night before having sex,believing that's right spiritually or just their decision but this post is for those who are ready to get intimate before and even after their wedding night.

Having sex with a new partner is a considerable dating milestone and there are few moments as significant in terms of excitement and intrigue. For some people, hopping in the sack on the first date is common practice while others opt to wait for weeks, months or even until marriage.
Research suggests that while the first kiss usually takes place by the second date, we wait an average of four to six dates before having sex and 14 before saying, "I love you."
However, since sex means different things to different people, these averages don’t necessarily help individual daters to determine when the time is right. While some experts will caution daters against having sex too soon and others suggest that you wait as long as you possibly can, I’m of a different philosophy.
However, answering one simple question may help to steer you in the right direction: Do you want to have sex with this person? If the answer is yes and you feel emotionally and practically prepared, I would be less concerned with how many dates you’ve been on and more focused on getting my hands on some good quality condoms, lube and clean bed sheets.
Remember: you are the only expert that matters. The rest of us are just here to offer resources and support.
 Here are a few perspectives from active daters that might help you to determine what approach works best for you:
I have sex right away!: “If I’m attracted to him, I don’t wait more than a few dates. You might think I should wait longer, but sex is important to me, so I don’t want to hold out only to find out that we’re not compatible. I’m a busy woman!” Trina, 37

I wait until I know I’m the only one: “Call me old fashioned, but I’m not in this for the hook-up. I casually ask if she’s dating anyone else before I even consider sleeping with her. Sometimes this happens on the third date and other times, I’ve waited until at least ten dates. In my experience, they’re willing to wait.” Chris, 25

It depends…: “I hate rules. They’re made to be broken. I’ve had sex on the first date and I’ve dated for months without even coming close and I don’t think either approach has really impacted my relationships.” Greig, 29

Lucky Number 7: “I guess I’m not really an active dater anymore since we moved in together last month, but I made lots of mistakes in past relationships including having sex too early. I just wasn’t ready and it complicated things. This time I waited seven dates and it seems to be working out!” Sharleen, 32
Sour

This bridal party is freaking out in this viral photo for a very good reason!

We’ve seen it all — dog weddings, themed weddings, traditional weddings — and each ceremony trying to top the next can be a bit exhausting for observers. And while we were just thinking that we needed a little something to organically shake things up, we weren’t quite expecting this bridal party’s photo to do the trick.
What appeared to be yet another post-nuptial photo shoot for the bridal party, almost ended up in a dramatic ride to the hospital for Birmingham, Alabama
photographer Leslie Hollingsworth. While she was going above and beyond to deliver the most elegant bridal photos to the newlyweds, Hollingsworth almost got pummeled by a passing car — and she captured the party’s reactions on camera!
Look closely, the bridal party is completely freaking out!
The look on the bridesmaids' faces when a car almost runs me down.. But at least the bride and groom look happy!!
The looks on the bridesmaids’ faces as Hollingsworth was just steps away from becoming one with the road are priceless! And the newlyweds being able to keep their composure during the fiasco says a lot to us about how they’ll handle obstacles in the future — in complete composed solidarity.
Hollingsworth told the local Birmingham news station WBRC that she “thought it was hysterical,” showing that she’s a pro when it comes to keeping it cool during really scary times. We’re so glad she’s OK!
We can’t say that we would’ve handled the event as casually as she did.

13 signs that your relationship is heading for a spilt.

What are the signs that your relationship is in major trouble?
Below is a list of some of the things to look out for (though I'd rather you look at them as signs that your marriage or relationship is in need of intensive care) - and they count for either one of you:
1. Your communication level reduces by the day, You are not talking much about personal ‘stuff’ - you have little idea what is going on in your partner's life.

2. When your patner refuses to change a bad habit and You're complaining about the same things over and over again.

3. You can't come to an understanding or agreement over important issues (if you're still at this stage - you have to find out where the problem is from)

4. You end up feeling frustrated, angry and hurt, whenever you try to talk about them

5. You're feeling increasingly depressed - if you both feel like this on account of your relationship then your feelings are definite warnings signs of a break up

6. You're becoming increasingly irritable and/or withdrawn.

7. You're unhappy and may have even mentioned or threatened your partner with separation.

8. You're going out more frequently or staying longer at work and you're increasingly leading separate lives

9. At least one of you is having an affair,this means the level of love and respect you had for your partner has reduced and you feel you need someone new.

10. You're acting ‘out of character’, or perhaps you have 'not been yourself' lately,you always have mood swings when your with your lover and you become very cranky.

11. You're arguing more frequently as a couple and perhaps even treating each other with contempt

12. You are 'stonewalling' - ignoring your partner when you're miffed, pretending that he or she doesn't exist (wow, what a bad habit!)

13. You're inconsistent - you make promises about being there and then make yourself scarce

3 Years After Messy Divorce Nollywood Actress Chika Ike Finds Love Again (Juicy Details)

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In August 2013, Delectable Nollywood actress, Chika Ike finalized herdivorce with her estranged husband, Tony Eberiri over alleged grounds of infidelity, domestic violence and more.
The movie star is excited to have found love again and she tells Kemi Filani Blog all about it and more in this exclusive interview…Enjoy!

Is Chika Ike a fulfilled woman yet?
Honestly, not yet. There are certain things I haven’t achieved. Everyday I wake up, I want to get to the zenith of my career, but all takes one step at a time. I’m still hoping to achieve more which would eventually make me a fulfilled woman.
We know you have finished the season 2 of your TV Reality show, African Diva, which just started airing, is there another pet projects you are working on?
Of course Yes! I have my movie project coming up next year. We are still working on it. But for now we are focused on African Diva.

What’s new about the African Diva reality show season 2?
We had 3 girls each from four African countries and the rest from Nigeria. The season 2 was thought through. It has better picture quality,the girls more organized, the task more interesting, the house more structured. Lots to learn about from this season 2.
You have been in Nollywood for a long time, how do you re-invent yourself to be always relevant?
Life is all about growth. The day you stopped growing, you start dying. The ability of not been satisfied, the thought of failure, scares me. It makes me to want to do for myself everyday.

How has life been generally for you as a Nigerian actress?
I started acting since 2005. I knew there was a world I could conquer back then beyond my father’s bakery wall at Ikotun- Egbe area of Lagos State.
It has been 11 years has been very rewarding.
But for a while now, your face has been scarce in movies, have you shunned acting on other people’s jobs?
Well, my latest movie is still in the cinema; Miss Teacher. I released it last year for the cinemas.
Adding to that, I have been busy with my pet projects and doing a lot of traveling too. But I have done about 4 movies this year, 2016 for Iroko TV.
What’s the striking thing you want to be remembered for in Nollywood, just like AY the comedian who has broken bonds and also made it to the Guinness book of World’s records?
Firstly, I tap into AY’s blessing, (laughs). Honestly, I want to get to higher places in life, but we all know that no matter how far and wide you project, you can only get there by the grace of God.
From my recent experiences, I know it’s all about God and his plans for me. I know he would crown my efforts and hard work with great success.
Would ever go under the knife to correct or enhance any part of your body?
No! I won’t. I’m comfortable in my skin and looks but that doesn’t mean I am against those that did or want to go through plastic surgeries.
I’m beautifully made by God, so there’s no need to go under the knife to tamper with any part of my body.

After what you went through in your first marriage, do you still want to give love and marriage a second chance?
Marriage is a beautiful institution. I will never talk down on marriage because it’s something I still look forward to. It’s what every average woman hopes for. But the thing is, right now, i’m focused on my career.
But do you have a special someone in your life?
Yes I do (blushes..). I have a very special person in my life right now.

Is he from the movie industry?
Well, that’s all I can say about my relationship; I have a special someone. His profile doesn’t matter to you right now.
On social media, especially Instagram, how do you react to critics that trail your posts?
Some years back, it bothered me a lot. But right now, I have learnt to develop thick skin for such negative comments and critics. I don’t waste my time responding to them. I just sieve; the good, bad and ugly ones.
I take note of the good ones, do what I need to do with them and discard the rest.

Your mum was a pastor before she passed on some months ago, how did she influence your life?
My mum was a very strong woman. There’s something she always says, don’t let anyone intimidate you; be confident. So, she’s the kind of mum that won’t you fail. She preached the gospel all over the world; American, London, everywhere. She was like a role model to me. She shaped me into the woman I am today.

How is this present bad economy tagged ‘recession affecting you?
To be honest, it’s affecting everyone. Businesses are folding up everyday. We just have to go through all these for a reason. Americans too went through recession. But it’s the ability to survive after the recession that matter.
I have strategy; I tell myself that I must survive till the recession ends. I just have to look for ways to survive.
Was that why you went into Real Estate business?
Well, i’m a business woman as whole. I love doing business and I like generating funds for myself, so I can give out. I like to help people a lot. That’s my basic thing.
I do acting, I have a beauty store, and ventured into Real Estate, 5 years ago.
The Real Estate business is on the down low because of the recession.
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Outrageous! 12-year-old boy marries 11-year-old cousin, father gives blessing  

In Egypt, the news about a man marrying his 12-year-old son to his 11-year-old cousin as gone viral, as everyone talking, and he is being blasted for this irrational act.

An 12-year-old boy will marry his cousin, 11, after the groom-to-be’s father gave the couple’s engagement his blessing.
While family and friends celebrated Nasser Hassan’s eldest son’s lavish wedding, the father decided to double the joy by announcing the engagement. Egyptian law prohibits marriages for anyone under 18 and the decision for 12-year-old Omar and 11-year-old Gharam, to marry has sparked outrage among activists.
According to Al Watan newspaper, Hassan disclosed that there was nothing inappropriate about the couple, adding that it was only an engagement, not a marriage. A complaint has already been filed with the attorney general to investigate the incident and hold the parents accountable for this crime, as the girl will be deprived of equal chances to education, growth, and will isolate her from social spheres.
Egyptian law prohibits marriages for anyone under 18 and the decision for Omar, 12, and Gharam, 11, to marry has sparked outrage among activists.
Omar’s father brushed off any criticism, and said he is a free man and did nothing wrong. He said: “Omar has always loved Gharam so much that he used to say he will marry her when they grow up before any other man asks for her hand in marriage when she is older. He added that they will get married when they reach the legal age.

we have different types of girlfriends,check out the category your girlfriend falls in

Different Types of Girlfriends

There as many types of girlfriends as there are types of boyfriends.
Fortunately for you, we are not going to break them down according to their sun signs! We shall however, tell you more about the various kinds of girlfriends you are expected to come across in your dating life. Their nuances, their positives, their obvious negatives and why they could be just the one’s for you. So read on, and you might just discover your type in this list.
1. Individualistic
This girlfriend is the one who has brains which she uses and who is culturally rooted. She wants her space, has a strong independent identity , cultivates opinions and cannot be pushed around. At the same time, she knows her boundaries; she accepts the good as well the bad that comes with living in a male-dominated society and has her head on her shoulders. She will be a sane partner; one who will respect your individuality as she treasures her own.
2. Domestic & Docile
She is the girlfriend who will always put her boyfriend ahead of her. She has opinions and a mind that she can use, but she chooses to stir the way her partner wishes her too. She is certainly not dumb, but she chooses to believe or has been raised in a manner which suggests that the man is alpha, omega and everything in between . This does not mean she will not put you in your place should you go overboard, but you can expect her to support you no matter what in whatever you chose to do or believe.
3. Demanding & Dominating
If this type is your girlfriend, then you can forget almost all other aspects of your life. She will demand that she be the centre of your universe and she will be dominating enough to make sure she gets what she demands . If your personality is not strong headed enough, she might over-ride you and your choices/decisions.
4. Possessive & Paranoid
Remember Lara Dutta from No Entry? Yes, that’s the type we are talking about. She is loving and caring and sweet. But then she also is possessive and compulsively cross-checks . You will find yourself answering the 'where you are' and 'what you are doing' questions 10 times a day, and still might have to face a barrage of questions after you’ve done all answering.
5. Money & More Money
This type is as old as humanity itself. She is with you for the money. She wants you to spend every time you’ll go out and won’t do with anything cheap. In case you run out of money, you can be sure she won’t be by your side anymore. She is not the one if you’re looking for love; a fling is what will work best.
These are just our versions of the various types of girlfriends that can be. Obviously, there is more to each girlfriend that what we’ve stated above. We certainly mean no harm or disrespect to women.
Source: mensxp.com

Playing dead saved my life: 32-year-old woman stalked and beaten to a pulp by abusive ex after she walked out

When 32-year-old Grace Nyaguthii walked out on an abusive relationship and took her four-year-old son with her, she never expected to find herself in a hospital, with eyes swollen shut. She wrote;
"It wasn’t the first time; I had left before, but was sweet-talked into returning. I did so mainly because of our child. I did not want my son to grow up without a father. But the breaking point came when I realised there was more harm being done when I saw he was fearful in his own home. But leaving hardly ever gives one a clean break." she narrates from her bed at Nairobi Women's Hospital.
Weeks, months, and even years later, Grace was still dealing with her ex, who was still calling her and showing up at the places she would go.
"We both lived in South B, Nairobi, so it was easy for him to find me," she says. In fear, Grace moved to Nanyuki town with her son to get away from him. Last year, she came back to Nairobi to start a business and the harassment continued.
"At this point, I had learnt how to deal with him. I could never tell him ‘no’ outright because it would aggravate him. Instead, when we talked I would lie and promise that one day we would reunite as a family. The guise of friendship placated him and allowed me a bit of peace."
The situation took a bad turn last week, when in the midst of planning for her grandmother’s funeral, Boss, as he is known by his friends, found out where Grace lived.
"He came at 5.30am on the day of the burial after a night of drinking. He was to attend the funeral as well. Badging into my house, he moved around in a craze. He was surprised to see that I had moved on and was living well without him. I was in a hurry to leave as I had to go to the mortuary and told him so," she narrates.
He responded with a hard back-hand slap. "You’re telling me what to do because I’m in your house," he asked her. Enraged, he proceeded to push her until she fell on her bed, sat on her chest and rained blows on her face.
"He choked me as he beat me so that I couldn’t scream, saying he was going to kill me. He kept hitting and hitting, and I realised that the more I fought to get away, the harder the blows came. So, I decided to play dead. This saved my life," says Grace.

Contented that he had accomplished his mission, Boss ransacked her things, took the money she had and even her new clothes for the funeral, and left.
Grace on a hospital bed nursing extensive wounds, having just regained her eyesight as the beatings caused her face to swell so much, her eyes could not open, is angry, hurt, and wants justice, not just for her, but all other women who are going through what she has.
Source: mediamaxnetwork.ke

Mary J. Blige's estranged husband demands almost $130K per month in spousal support

Mary J. Blige's estranged husband, Martin Isaacs, is demanding a whole lot of money from her for a monthly spousal support as part of their divorce settlement.
Martin Isaacs who was Mary J's manager, filed for temporary spousal support, and according to the documents he filed, he says $129,319 per month is a reasonable amount to maintain his lifestyle.
His reason being that Mary J was the only breadwinner during their almost 13-year marriage and got him used to their lavish lifestyle. Adding that Mary J. earned between $1.5 to $5.1 million over the last 2 years.
He said he hasn't made any money since Mary fired him as her manager shortly after she filed for divorce. Even though the couple signed a Prep before they got married, Martin says it doesn't count because he signed it without a lawyer.
He also said Mary J has given him $85k since they separated.

shout out to all the real lovers out there

True love is priceless,you don't need to try so hard to please your significant half,it all comes naturally...
👍 to all the true lovers out there..keep on keeping it real,continue to support your special friend and cherish him/her. Never forget to always rekindle your love don't always wait for Val's day or birthdays to do that.

Finding True Love Can Be Difficult

The Bible has a remarkable story about a woman named Leah who discovered that finding true love was difficult. Leah was the daughter of a wealthy and manipulative man named Laban. Leah also had a sister named Rachel, one of the most beautiful women in the whole region. Leah, was described as, “weak in the eyes.” We do not know exactly what that phrase means, but it is not hard to guess. Even without the side-by-side comparison to her beautiful sister, Leah was not drawing much attention.

One day, Rachel was herding the sheep when a young man named Jacob came to the well. His journey's purpose was to find a wife, so it did not take him long to notice beautiful Rachel approaching. He rolled away the stone over the well, and watered the sheep for her. Learning he was her father's nephew, she ran home to tell Laban the news. Already head-over-heels in love, or call itlove-at-first-sight if you wish, Jacob stayed on with Laban. When asked what his wages should be, he immediately asked to marry Rachel. Laban made Jacob an offer. “Work for me, seven years without pay, then I will give you my daughter.”

It is starting to sound like a romantic story for the ages! Jacob was so madly in love that he did not hesitate. Seven years he worked, everyday focused on his prize. One day he would finally be able to marry the woman of his dreams, Rachel. The Bible records the event with all of the poetry we would expect from a great love story. “Jacob served seven years for Rachel, and they seemed to him but a few days because of the love he had for her.”

After seven years of labor, the wedding day finally arrived. The party must have been massive. When night came, Jacob and his new bride, probably wearing her wedding veil, went into their tent.

The next morning Jacob awoke, the Bible says, “and behold it was Leah!” Jacob had been tricked. Laban had switched his daughters on the wedding night and tricked Jacob into marrying his oldest, Leah. Why? Laban wanted another seven years of free labor before he would allow Jacob to actually marry Rachel. Still madly in love with Rachel, Jacob agrees and works another seven years to marry this younger daughter.

We like the image of Jacob! He was willing to submit himself to over a decade of manual labor as an act of love for Rachel whom he considered to be his soulmate. Like a great Shakespearian tragedy, we want desperately to find that kind of love, too. We want to know that someone would make such a sacrifice for us. This expression of love is the deepest craving of our heart. But allowing ourselves to be quickly carried off in the ecstasy of the moment misses the real heart of the story for Leah.

Leah had never been able to draw much attention. She had always been the hopeless romantic. But now things were much worse. Leah was married to a man who never for a moment loved her, and manipulated by a father as payment for help around the farm. Leah was not loved by her husband, nor even her father. She was used and discarded. When she was most vulnerable she was rejected.

What happened next is subtle, but important for us to understand our own struggle with love and rejection. In Leah’s first century world, women cared deeply about building a family, especially having sons, to which they could pass on their family name. A father’s proudest moment was the birth of his first son. Soon after being married, Jacob wanted a son. Leah saw an opportunity! If she could be the first to give Jacob a son, surely then he would love and appreciate her. Leah must have been excited to find out she was pregnant, and even more excited when she gave birth to the family’s first son, Reuben

Again she believed God had seen her rejection. Now, surely her husband would love her. But nothing changed. Leah had a third son, who she named Levi. She honestly hoped that now her husband would care for her and love her. But again, nothing changed.Leah believed in her heart that God had blessed her with this son so that now her husband would finally love her. But nothing changed. Leah gave birth to a second son, she named him Simeon.

Leah’s story teaches us that finding true love is difficult. True love goes beyond the passion of romance and even finding a partner for the sake of being married. While romance and having our needs met for provision and security are important, there is more that we must discover.