I posted this picture of my nephew Noah the other day. He is getting married Saturday. He has been with Lauren most of his growing-up years. They met in 4th grade, best friends since 6th grade, and started dating in 9th grade. I always hoped we would get to this day, the day they became husband and wife.
Noah has always been his own person; tender, funny, curious, inclusive, and kind. I consider Noah to be a man of courage and deep values. He landed his first teaching job in Detroit, and Lauren is finishing up her MSW at U of M. They will both leave their imprint on those they work with in powerful ways.
Now, this nephew of mine in his striped onesie is all grown up. He has met the love of his life, and they are about to take on life together as a married couple. They have been doing this for a long time, so I am confident about this next season. They will live life as it works for them; they respect each other, embracing their strengths, and navigating the struggles. They will make decisions that honor one another, throwing norms, expectations, and gender roles to the wind.
I feel the tension in my soul this week, the wanting to weep in joy and squeal in delight. This wedding will be fun, and as a couple who has navigated planning amidst COVID, they will breathe a sigh of relief when it is over.
We are down to the final hours, Noah and Lauren. So let’s make this one of the best weekends of your life!
Blessed be His Name!