A year ago today, Angela and Will, along with their attendants, gathered with me in front of their guests and their special ceremony commenced. As part of their ceremony they had chosen two lovely verses and I share one of those with you today.
The Union by Robert Fulghum
You have known each other from the first glance of acquaintance to this point of commitment. At some point, you decided to marry. From that moment of yes to this moment of yes, indeed, you have been making promises and agreements in an informal way. All those conversations that were held riding in a car or over a meal or during long walks – all those sentences that began with “When we’re married” and continued with “I will” and “you will” and “we will” – those late night talks that included “someday” and “somehow” and “maybe” – and all those promises that are unspoken matters of the heart. All these common things, and more, are the real process of a wedding.
The symbolic vows that you are about to make are a way of saying to one another, “You know all those things we’ve promised and hoped and dreamed – well, I meant it all, every word.”
Look at one another and remember this moment in time. Before this moment you have been many things to one another – acquaintance, friend, companion, lover, dancing partner, and even teacher, for you have learned much from one another in these last few years. Now you shall say a few words that take you across a threshold of life, and things will never quite be the same between you. For after these vows, you shall say to the world, this is my husband, this is my wife.
Lance, Angela’s son, added a lovely touch when the cake was was being passed around. He rearranged some of the cake decorations to put his name in jewels. A lovely way of demonstrating his love and support for his Mum & Will and recognition of his inclusion in their decision (my interpretation, not necessarily Lance’s).
Congratulations Angela & Will – may you both continue to enjoy much laughter together as you journey. Love and blessings to you both and to your families.
Claire Jones – Celebrant
