Wedding Readings

There is something rather wonderful about sharing a special day with people you care about.
Last Saturday, my cousin (newly upgraded to Lil Sis) got married.

Like all weddings it had a pivotal moment. This came when Gen didn't repeat the name of her intended during the wedding vows. A collective "WTF" from all gathered. No, really. My mind was filled with "has she changed her mind?"

A collective sigh of relief when she kick-started her mouth and normal order was resumed.

Anyway, I was given the honour of reading.
I searched for a few days and then found a piece "The Quiet World" by Jeffrey McDaniel. (1998) 


“In an effort to get people to look
into each other’s eyes more,
and also to appease the mutes,
the government has decided
to allot each person exactly one hundred 
and sixty-seven words, per day.

When the phone rings, I put it to my ear 
without saying hello. In the restaurant 
I point at chicken noodle soup.
I am adjusting well to the new way.

Late at night, I call my long distance lover, 
proudly say I only used fifty-nine today. 
I saved the rest for you.

When she doesn’t respond,
I know she’s used up all her words, 
so I slowly whisper I love you
thirty-two and a third times.
After that, we just sit on the line 
and listen to each other breathe."

 
Incredible. Breath-taking. Brilliant.
However, it didn't seem "soft" enough. So, I decided to write for Gen and Tayeb. English isn't Tayeb's first language so meaning was more important than words.
This seemed about the right mix:



My Love For You.            ADZ (2013)

More than anything I wish for you to know
Of this inner thing that makes my eyes fill with tears
Whenever I take a simple breath to tell you.
I love you.
When I gaze upon your face and absorb the essence of you
My heart beats faster, my ribcage expands, my senses awaken.
I am paralysed for the briefest of moments by a fear
That I might not be able to contain a single particle more
Of this love for you.
I smile on the inside, even when I am grumpy with the world
Because you are my light that dispels moods and shadows.
I have you as my guide and companion.
You make me feel safe.
And courageous.
There is now a lightness in my attitude, allowing me to enjoy the adventure as it unfolds.
I look at you and I know
That if I nurture this love, this beautiful, glorious love I have for you
And keep it as alive as it is today
I will be the luckiest person to walk on this earth.
I truly love you.


I wish them completeness in their life together. I have been around them a lot recently and it has been enriching to witness their special and tight bond.
Love and light, to you G&T!

x