Before You Bend the Knee - Why Marriage and Parenting Preparation Must Start Early
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About this book
This book is dedicated to every man and woman who longs not merely for a wedding but for a covenant, those who desire a marriage strong enough to shelter hearts, steady enough to endure strain, and wise enough to bless generations. It is dedicated to those who understand that the character required to sustain a marriage is the same character required to raise a child. To all who refuse to build love on impulse, chemistry, or ceremony alone, and who choose instead the quiet and demanding work of formation: anchoring identity, cultivating character, practicing faithfulness, guarding boundaries, and learning discernment before attachment.”
Gerald Zirimwabagabo is an author, educator, agricultural development specialist, business enthusiast, and former public servant whose life journey spans education, international development, government leadership, business, and faith-based personal development. Born on May 27, 1952 in Rwanda, Gerald's early life was shaped by resilience, learning, and a commitment to service. He graduated from Makerere University in Uganda in 1977 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture and a concurrent Diploma in Education. His professional career began at Bugema Adventist College in Uganda, where he served for four years as a teacher of Biology and Agriculture. During this period, he also managed the institution's student work-for-compensation program and was responsible for the college farm, combining education with practical skills development. Gerald's passion for human development, and education later took him to the Kingdom of Lesotho, where he worked for ten years. He initially served as a United Nations Volunteer under UNESCO and subsequently as an Agricultural Education Advisor at the National Teacher Training College under USAID-supported programs. While serving in Lesotho, he pursued graduate studies and earned a Master's Degree in Agricultural Development from the University of London in 1990. He later worked in Namibia for two years under a Danish development organization, serving as Deputy Chief of Party in education and development programs. In December 1993, Gerald moved to Johannesburg, South Africa, where he entered the business sector. Following the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda, he returned to his homeland in November 1995 to contribute to the country's reconstruction and recovery. His public service career included several senior leadership positions. He served as Director of Cabinet in Rwanda's Ministry of Transport and Communications. In 1997, he was appointed Minister of State in the Ministry of Agriculture. In 1999, he became Rwanda's Ambassador to Israel, and in 2001 he joined the Board of Directors of the African Development Bank, representing East Africa. In 2008, he was appointed Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of RwandAir, helping guide the growth of Rwanda's national airline. After retiring from public service in 2010, Gerald entered private business, primarily in the mineral sector. In 2018, he discovered a new passion: writing. Drawing upon decades of experience in education, leadership, development, business, family life, and faith, he began authoring books focused on personal growth, human development, purpose, character formation, health, relationships, faith, and economic empowerment. His work seeks to help individuals understand the principles that shape lives, build strong foundations, and create meaningful legacies. He is currently working on his sixth manuscript. Gerald is married, the father of three adult children, and the grandfather of six grandchildren. He remains deeply committed to lifelong learning, self-development, leadership, and faith. Through his writing and speaking, he continues to encourage people from all walks of life to pursue wisdom, purposeful living, and service to others. His mission is simple: to share ideas that help people grow, make better choices, strengthen their character, and ultimately walk with greater purpose toward their destiny. For more information about Gerald's books and ongoing projects, visit www.unbentvoice.com.
