Happy Anniversary

[SallyMander]

The day of Liz and Travis's wedding dawned warm and bright, but the forecast called for a chance of rain. The bride's mother was panicking at the sight of every cloud – as brides' mothers are wont to do. The ceremony was to be held outside, on the scenic grounds of an art museum, and they had prayed for good weather.

The sky clouded over a bit during the ceremony, but the guests stayed dry. Smiles and tears all around as the families processed down the aisle. Liz's hair fell in perfect curls over her bare shoulders; the bouquet – lilies and roses, sunkissed orange and yellow – laid bright against her dress. As she looked at Travis she became even more radiant. People commented afterwards on her smile – she couldn’t contain it – and she glowed with pure joy throughout the ceremony.

The rabbi spoke of their love, their families, their past and future together. There were the vows, the glass wrapped and stepped on, the kisses, the cheering and clapping and endless photos, the champagne toast, the dancing and hugs and well-wishes. Everyone said it was one of the loveliest, most traditional weddings they had ever attended.

As they celebrate their first anniversary together, I wonder why anyone should care – why this marriage is any less meaningful – because Travis goes by a middle name?

Her first name is Anne.





(I wrote this a while back, but it seems pertinent again... Since my original writing, Liz and Travis have moved to California. However they were married in Massachusetts so I assume their marriage is still legally recognized...?)