Marriage

A beautiful ring, a picturesque setting, ooh's and aah's, a gorgeous dress...

These are the things that pop into our heads when we think of getting married. The mental images are all surrounded by a glowing haze, the necessary planning and organizing of all aspects of the wedding cause stress levels to rise instantly.

I think of the man I promised to be with forever. I can see vividly in my mind's eye the look on his face when he slid a ring onto my finger, the tone of his voice when he promised to love me in good times and in bad. Now I know what a love so deep it requires no words is. Whether in the silly, the serious, or the romantic things, we can communicate.

I hold close to my heart all the advice I've received so far. My heart bursts with anticipation of the accomplishment of our plans and dreams. I find infinite comfort in the knowledge that I will never have to bear anything alone, because I trust my love completely.

The rosy tint surrounding marriage is, for me I think, different than the average ideal. It is ironic and very fitting that I, a lover of attention and all things flirty and cutesy, was married partially in secret in a courtroom with a judge and two witnesses I barely knew. I say that because I was able to focus on the commitment I was making, instead of the opinions and attentions of everyone around us. Now we are able to prepare for a celebration with all those close to us.

For a moment I questioned our reasoning behind getting married so soon at all. Aside from the external signs, our wholehearted commitment to eachother was already in place. Now there are rings and a legal document stating that we are husband and wife. We wanted simply to be "official", to be joined together in every way possible, legally, emotionally, and soon, spiritually.

I am grateful for the unconditional love and support of my family and friends. I am so tremendously blessed to be so loved, and especially to have the devoted, passionate love of Reid, so sacred only unto ourselves.