wedding day thoughts

You look just like you always do, ever since I first met you, and yet you look so different, so much more than I have ever known. You hair sticks up in the same porcupine-quill stiff natural spikes style that I first saw you in, way back on the first day of kindergarten. If I were to reach out and touch them now, I suppose they would feel exactly the same as they did then. I can see how happy you are at this moment, your eyes are shining with contentment and your head is tilted to one side as you look at the gathering of people in front of you. Just watching you like this is such an immense delight. Watching your expressions change by the second as you look upon different people, the corners of your mouth lifting in a slight grin as you take in the chaos, the last minute arrangements, and the busy atmosphere that always surrounds a wedding. Watching you makes me fall in love with you all the more.
All throughout our childhood companionship, to our strengthening friendship in junior high, being best friends in high school and university to falling in love with you somewhere along the way, I know that I have never loved you as much as I do now, as you turn towards the minister to say your vows. Your voice rings out loud and clear, filled with confidence, as you promise to love, care, and respect your wife, and stay true to her for the rest of your life. And I know you will. You are a man of honour, one who stays true to his words. One who never makes a promise unless he whole-heartedly means it. I stare at you throughout the ceremony, call it lack of will power or whatever you will, but I can’t make myself look away.
All too soon the ceremony is over. A mild shove from one of the bridesmaids standing behind me pulls me out of my reverie. I realise I will soon have to walk down the aisle with your best man, perform my duties as maid of honour, while you walk your bride, my sister through the rice shower and into the car. You kiss me on my cheek, muttering “sister-in-law” and grinning before ducking into the car. I wave good-bye as your car pulls out of the driveway. Yes, I know that you will take care of my sister, that you will be the best husband anyone could ever ask for. The best husband, companion, and soul mate, just not mine.
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steven & maretta : thank you for your reviews