Tyra Booker

On January 20, 2024, I vowed to my husband, Corey Booker, that I would love him and be his helpmate for the rest of my life.

One year later, here we are—still walking in the authority of the covenant God allowed us to create. As much as I’d love to say it’s been a year of pure bliss, that wouldn’t be the full truth. It’s been challenging, to say the least, but it’s in those challenges that I’ve grown the most.

I’ve learned so much about myself, especially about the battles I thought I was fighting with Corey, only to realize that many of them were rooted in me. Marriage is a mirror—it forces you to confront yourself. I’ve had to look Corey in the eye and admit, “I’m not fighting you. I’m fighting parts of myself that I don’t want to face, and I’ve been taking it out on you.” This realization has taken a year to fully sink in. The truth is, this battle doesn’t end unless I choose to change.

And let’s not forget the spiritual battle. The enemy targets every God-ordained marriage because he knows the power it holds. His goal is to sow discord and destruction, to pit us against each other when, in reality, the fight isn’t between us—it’s against him. I’ve had to learn that my role as a wife and a child of God is to pray for my husband, for myself, and for our unity. It’s been a humbling journey of taking back control, recognizing that the real fight is in the spiritual realm, not between the two of us.

Over the past year, I’ve learned three major lessons that I want to share—just a glimpse of the wisdom marriage has taught me so far:

1. Impact vs. Intent

Communication matters. I used to be quick-tempered and ready to argue, convinced that being “right” was all that mattered. But I’ve learned that it’s not just what I say—it’s how I say it. If my tone is harsh or disrespectful, Corey can’t fully receive my message, no matter how valid my point may be. Speaking with grace, respect, and gentleness allows my intent to come through clearly. It’s a daily practice, but it’s made such a difference in how we connect.

2. Love Him

Of course, I love my husband—I married him! But marriage requires a deeper kind of love, one that aligns with God’s definition:
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” (1 Corinthians 13:4–7, NIV)

There were times I let my anger or frustration overshadow my love. I withheld grace and mercy when Corey made mistakes, forgetting that I’m far from perfect myself. One day, God convicted me, and it hit hard. When God convicts your heart, there’s no escaping it. I had to confront my behavior and make the choice to love better—to love His way. I’m still learning, still growing, but I’m committed to leading with love in all I do.

3. Pray, Pray, & Pray

Prayer has been my lifeline. It’s not just a last resort; it’s the foundation of everything. When conflict arises, I’ve learned to take my frustrations to God first. Yes, I communicate with Corey to resolve things here on earth, but true healing and resolution happen when I invite God into the situation.

God is the ruler of all, and He hears our prayers. I’ve prayed over our issues, over Corey, and over our marriage, and I’ve seen God move. Corey has grown into an even better man, and I’ve become a better woman because of Him. Prayer changes things—not just externally but within us.

If you’ve made it this far, thank you for reading. I had so much more I wanted to share, but I’ll save the rest for another time.

Corey, if you’re reading this, thank you. Thank you for being my help mate, my safe space, and my joy. Thank you for sticking by me as I’ve struggled to learn how to love you well. You are the greatest gift God has given me, and I pray I always treasure you as such.

You’ve brought joy into my life when I had none, healed parts of my heart I thought would remain broken, and loved me beyond my flaws. I pray that God continues to bless us in every area of our lives and that He gives you the strength and wisdom to walk in your purpose as my husband.

I love you. And again, Happy Anniversary Husband ❤️