Ben and Jewel Tankard; a beautiful couple whose story is one of faith, hope, love and
inspiration to many took time to chat with Kennisha Hill, Marital Bliss’ Editor-in-Chief. Ben Tankard, who is a Grammy Nominated and Stellar Award winning Gospel Jazz musician, has a powerful testimony that goes beyond the keys. He is not only a Jazz Legend. He’s also the Pastor of Destiny Center, the Author of “Faith it ‘til you make it”, a successful entrepreneur and a loving father and husband. But, his life took a few unexpected turns from leaving the NBA as a result of an injury to being divorced.
When asked how the transition was for him- going from NBA player to musician- he explains, "It wasn’t extremely drastic, because God made it gradual.... It wasn’t anything sudden enough to put me in cardiac arrest or anything (laughing). When things happened I was more like “Finally” and not really like “Oh My God!”
Ben and Jewel were both previously divorced. Jewel shared with us how she was able to get over her previous relationship and move forward with Ben. "I made up in my mind that I’m going to seriously enjoy the Lord and be happy. Yeah, I wanted a husband and to be happy again, but I just made a decision not to be hurt. I may feel hurt but I’m not going to stay hurt. And, I’m going to do things that feed my faith and feed my confidence and not feed my hurt. I didn’t want to be this old bitter black woman. So, when I met Ben, I was definitely ready."
When Ben first laid eyes on Jewel, he shared how he "couldn't play another correct note" the rest of the evening.
Whether you've come out of a broken relationship or not, Ben and Jewel's story is sure to encourage you to stay in love regardless of opposition.
To read this full interview, visit http://www.maritalblissonline.com and subscribe to this bimonthly eMagazine!
Thrive in your marriage!
