The bride and groom said, “I do” and dining and dancing ensued. Love filled the beautiful courtyard and flooded my heart.

Sometimes I find growth in unexpected moments, as I did on this very happy occasion. I consciously took a moment to step back, watch, and absorb everything happening outside my own to-do list and needs. To notice my feelings (hard for me to do). And what I saw and felt was amazing.

Bridal attendants fussing over their loved one. A groom who couldn’t stop smiling because he loves my daughter so much. Family and friends who traveled at their own expense to join the celebration, thanking us for including them. My own heart struggled to let go of the little big-brown-eyed three-year-old girl, to see the full-grown woman walk into this next phase with those same eyes wide open.

The day was filled with kindness from the venue staff, Lyft drivers, store clerks,  and others who caught a glimpse of what the day meant.

Experiencing so much kindness and witnessing so much love in one day reminded me that good still exists in the world. I’m also grateful to those who graciously let me bump their needs and my volunteer commitments down the priority list for a few weeks.

This reminds me to notice how wonderful things are if only I remember to stop and take them all in. Thank you for letting me share this journey with you. 

Mary