elegant solemnity

It was a hushed, most significant moment in a beautiful old church abounding in stained glass. The signing on as man and wife. Solemn vows gracefully said to the witness of  friends and family. Vows they will cling to when tough times come (and they will, don't we older folks know.) Beloved and familiar words, elegant in simplicity and solemnity. An exchange of rings, a prayer, a kiss, a pronouncement--a new family begins. After photos taken to remember the day, a party begins to celebrate the moment and to celebrate the new Mr. and Mrs.

I watched my friend dance with her first born, the groom. A poignant few moments, mother, head on tall son's shoulder, whispering farewell. No doubt in her heart she was thinking of all that had been poured forth into his life and all that had transpired to bring him to this marvelous moment.