Joy...

 

"And now, by the power vested in me by the Constitution of the United States of America and reluctantly by the State of Florida, I now pronounce you married."

So intoned the longtime Reverend of two dear friends at their Saturday evening wedding ceremony, thus sending two men into a new chapter of their lives amid the cheers and tears of family and friends.

It was a day I really never thought I would see given that we live in South, a region known more for its Bible Belt and profound history of racism than the embracing inclusivity and social reform. I was reminded, however, that even in the darkest of times, humans have the capacity for deep and abiding joy, the essence of which draws us together in hope, transforming lives.

Joy was certainly in the forefront as I entered the wedding venue to the strains of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." This was followed by the refrain from the fifties hit, "Going to the Chapel," and the entrance of both grooms dressed in matching ensembles, complete with rainbow ties.

The prayers, remarks and vows and the benediction lent solemnity to this happy occasion, reminding all of us that while a wedding is an event, marriage carries with it obligation, responsibility and the need for communication, patience, compromise and at times, forbearance. All of this is familiar to both grooms by virtue of life experience, the gift of years and family stability.

Dinner and dancing followed and as the the evening lengthened, your truly worked up a bit of a sweat on the dance floor to the accompaniment of everyone from grannies to teens and babes in arms.

A beautiful time and a wish for continued and abundant happiness.