Dear friends and family…we are gathered here at the top of the world on this beautiful July day to witness the renewal of vows between Brian and Heidi.
To this sacred moment here today, Heidi and Brian bring the fullness of their hearts as a gift to share with one another. They bring the dreams which bind them together in their eternal commitment. They bring their gifts and talents, their unique personalities and spirits.
Today, we rejoice with Brian and Heidi in the life they began together 11 months ago, and we are all grateful to be here today to share in this remembrance of their promises to each other—promises of eternal friendship, respect, and love.
(After a reading by Brian's sister)
What beautiful words to hear as you recall the great love that brought the two of you together in marriage 11 months ago. Though I understand this love story actually started a few years before that. Heidi, you recalled for me the first time you met Brian. You first saw him when he and some friends stopped by your friend Anne’s house, correct? Brian, my sister had her eye on you even then, but I guess one of her friends claimed you first. Little did you both know that you met your future life partner that night! But you would both have to wait.
And aren’t you glad you did?! The two of you remained close over the years and developed a deep respect for one another and a close friendship. And that friendship lasted many years…past high school and through other relationships. Then, as with so many great love stories, a twist of fate brought you both together for good.
I believe it was at the annual Renaissance Fair, wasn’t it? You each visited a fortune teller named Madame Caroline, who informed you at different times that you had a strong bond with each other. After that, you began to spend more time with each other—and, quickly, “more time” became as much time as possible. Brian, you said that you knew Heidi was the one for you years before Madame Caroline said so. In fact, you said that you knew for years that Heidi was “the one.” Heidi, you told Mom and Dad that you were going to marry Brian months before you even started dating. Fortune teller or not—these two knew they were meant to spend the rest of their lives together.
I asked Heidi and Brian to write love letters to each other…to share with me how they really feel about each another. Heidi, you told me that you are so glad to have Brian in your life. You said that he is your best friend, your soul-mate, the best thing that has ever happened to you. Whatever you can’t do alone, you can accomplish ten-fold with Brian at your side…you said that you are the perfect team.
Brian, you said that you’ve already experienced so many ups and downs with Heidi…laughter and tears, joy and sorrow. Through all of that, Brian, you said that you have always loved Heidi with indescribable devotion. Heidi, Brian thanks you for blessing him with a perfect little girl (and he hopes someday for the blessing of a perfect little boy). Quite simply, Brian said: You are my Heidi.
In a few moments, the two of you will walk down this aisle—and into the rest of your lives—hand in hand. As you continue to live your marriage—when life isn’t always as beautiful as a mountaintop—I hope you continue to reach for the other’s hand. Rely not only on the strength those hands provide, but also on the tenderness. Remain firm in your commitment to each other, but allow for flexibility. So a marriage is sustained—with strength and tenderness, commitment and flexibility.
Also remember that you don't walk this path alone. Don't be afraid to reach out to those gathered here today when you face difficulty. Our hands are there, too. To accept an outreached hand is not an admission of failure, but an act of faith. For behind us, underneath us, around all of us, are the outstretched hands of those whom we love and those who love us.
Through the years, your family and friends showed you how to love, helped you to grow, and supported you when you found each other and began your life together. You have given me the great honor of speaking on behalf of your family and friends today. I know we will all continue to love and support you -- just as you love and support each other, Lillyana and all of us. May all the blessings of the universe be with your marriage today and always.
2 comments:
Matthew did such a nice job. In fact, both of you look quite happy. I hope that all went well. . . .and perhaps Matt has found a new vocation. :)
Awe, Matt, that is so beautiful! What a thoughtful officiation. (Did I make up that word or just use it incorrectly?)
And, who is that foxy hottie standing next to you in the photo?!
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