My young son and his wife arrive here from Oregon tomorrow. They are coming for the wedding of my older son. Both of my sons have met and have either married or are about to marry the most amazing women. If I could have designed these women from scratch, I would not have come up with anything nearly as wonderful as my sons did. And isn’t that the best we as parents can hope for? What joy it brings me to know that both of my children are happy in their lives. We all know about curve balls, but when you have a loving partner it makes it that much easier to handle the tough times.
Their first marriages were to good, strong, intelligent women. Unfortunately, they were not the right women for these two men. Marriage is tough, and unless you have a strong foundation, a solid friendship with respect, you cannot weather the storms that will inevitably show up. My grandchildren came from these women. All five of them are smart, curious, loving and happy children. And all boys! I love them equally and am proud to be related to them.
Getting married before you are ready usually ends up with a separation or divorce. Both of my sons tried but failed to make it work. Both of my sons made mistakes but did the best they could at the time with what they had. Despite the fact that all parties involved tried, the final result was painful and sad. I have been there myself and I know how difficult and challenging it is.
But life goes on and you hope for better times. In the case of my two sons, the better times came in the form of perfect partners. The upcoming wedding is on Friday evening and I know it will be a wonderful, joyful and love-filled occasion. Family and close friends will be attending. Their children will take part in the ceremony and help to celebrate the beginning of a new life together. There will be music and dancing, food and drink and laughter. I am counting on lots of laughter. I have been excited for weeks now about the wedding and having both of my sons together in the same room. It’s like Christmas time!
If you are going through a difficult period in your life, know this – it is not who you are. It is not the definition of your life, but merely a chapter. Time will bring change. It always does. You can count on it. Nothing stays the same. The chapter will finish and a new chapter will begin. Know in your heart that just around the corner is something good and beautiful for you. Trust that it is coming, even if it takes longer than you wish. Believe in the good that you deserve and welcome it when it gets to you.
Weddings are wonderful reminders that love and joy are real. They are not exclusive but are there for everyone. Be grateful when they find their way to you. Be patient, trust and when it comes, celebrate the wonder that is love!