Marry You

Is there anything more life-affirming, more uplifting, more beautiful, more joyful than a wedding?  It gets you out of your own head, focusing solely on the happiness of the day and the couple making their lifelong commitment to each other.

My cousin Lisa married her soulmate Tony at the end of July.  It was a 2nd marriage for both - but you couldn't tell by the way they looked at each other during the ceremony.  It's clear that each thinks they are the lucky one for finding the other - and in truth, they are both blessed.  This wedding was a true family affair, with both sides pitching in to make the day as perfect as possible for them. And as you can see from the photo - it was a beautiful day made all the more lovely by the smiles of the glowing bride and groom.

I love that neither of them, as they grew older, gave up on the possibility of love.  I love that they left their hearts open.  I love that they kept faith in the sanctity of marriage.  And most of all, I love that they found each other for they are truly two people who deserve this kind of happiness.

Over the years, each time I saw Chelsea and Ian together I would think "Oh, yes, of course.  They belong together."  They make each other shine bright; they have each other's backs; they honor not only each other but also their relationship.  I love the man my son has become since being with Chelsea; I love the woman my new daughter-in-law is with Ian.

 I had the honor of officiating at their wedding and was very moved by the ceremony they chose and the vows they made.  It was clear how important marriage is to them, how seriously they take this commitment.  They may be young but they clearly fully understood the pledges they made that day and made them lovingly, fearlessly and joyfully.  And in addition to my own role, they thoughtfully included Taryn, Emily and Addison to stand up for them as a bridesmaid, reader and flower girl respectively.  How wonderful it was to see all my children and my grandchild celebrating this amazing union.

I am not someone who is overly sentimental, emotionally demonstrative or particularly romantic.  What I felt most often during the ceremony and reception afterward was how proud I am of my children, how appreciative I am of the adults they have all become, how fortunate I am to experience yet another milestone in their lives.  I am in awe of who they are - kind, smart, hard-working, loyal, compassionate, funny and loving. They are and always will be my greatest accomplishment. 

Lisa and Tony's wedding reminded me how much I love my family; Ian and Chelsea's wedding reminded me how much I love my children. What priceless gifts these are, ones that I am infinitely thankful for.  Lisa and Tony, Chelsea and Ian - way to put a smile on my face!

Blessings and Love to All.