My son, Tim, his girlfriend, Becca, and I attended the wedding of two precious souls today. It was an intimate affair attended by close family and friends. The setting was perfect. They were married with a lovely gazebo behind them, a beautifully manicured lawn that swept away from them and down to a wooded area with beautiful gardens scattered throughout. It was the bride's parents' backyard.
The ceremony touched our hearts and tears were shed. My tears were ones of joy. Joy for this precious couple and how Papa has woven their hearts into one and joy for marriage itself. It truly is a mystery. You often do not realize how deep the connection goes and what a blessing it is until you face a sudden separation.
Once the cake was cut we headed to visit with the one who married me over thirty-one years ago. His eyes lit up when he saw us, but especially when he saw our son.
We got a few words out of him. He didn't have his speech valve on, but spoke anyway. His voice was raspy and the first words we heard were, "This is getting old really fast!"
We are very proud of Tim and tell him often. In the past two years we have seen much growth and maturity taking place. I was especially proud of him today.
Tim prayed for his dad and then shared a few thoughts with him. He encouraged Ray to remember this is temporary and that God has big plans for him. Tim said he believes that everything we go through gives us the ability to help that many more people. He asked him to not give up because we need him and want him home again.
I watched my husband's countenance change and soften. The brief light that we saw upon our arrival returned and was still there when we said goodbye.