Weddings and Butterflies

Today I’m doing something I never dreamed I’d do in my lifetime - I’m going to perform a marriage ceremony. It’s taking place in a state that doesn’t require a priest, minister, or public official.

I was really honored by the couple being married today when they asked me to do this - they’ve written a beautiful ceremony and it will be my pleasure to say the words they’ve put on paper.

As a Half-Fuller, weddings are “peak” occasions for me because of the joy and exuberance that flows from all who attend. The witnessing of two people pledging to spend their lives together as man and wife is a happy reminder of the enduring power of love.

To actually be a part of the ceremony only intensifies this reminder and the joy, and I only hope I can justify the faith this great couple has put in me to help them start their marriage in grand style.

At the end of the ceremony the bride will be releasing butterflies - I had not heard of this tradition before, so I looked it up this morning - here is its genesis:

“According to Native American legends, if you have a secret wish, capture a butterfly and whisper your wish to it. Since butterflies cannot speak, your secret is safe in their keeping. Release the butterfly, and it will carry your wish to the Great Spirit, who alone knows the thoughts of butterflies. If you set the butterfly free, you are helping to restore the balance of nature, and your wish will come true.”

They are symbols of “freedom and happiness“. This resonates with me, because I have a fond memory of a visit to a Monarch Butterfly migration resting place in Northern California several years back. The site of thousands of these beautiful creatures as they rest during their incredible journey of 3,000 miles effected me greatly, not only because of their symbolism but for their absolute perseverance to achieve their goals.

Happiness and perseverance- those really are the keys to a long and lasting marriage. And a great wish to whisper to those butterflies as they disappear into the night sky.

May love keep conquering all!