a Mama's Thoughts on the Morning They Wed

Last July today seemed so far away. Even in the last few months as SweetGirl and I have crafted it has seemed distant. Finally, the day has arrived. Today at 5pm the processional will begin and at approximately 5:15 my oldest child will take the final step into manhood. The Beast will become a woman's husband. He will in all aspects, legally, morally, spiritually and of the heart be bound to the heart and life of another. I have no doubt he will be a good husband, his Daddy and Papa have been amazing role models. He is a strong man and he is fiercely protective of those he loves.

Christopher, I am so proud of the man you have become.  I am blessed to have you as my son. I have told you in some very personal, deep discussions exactly what you coming into my life meant. I am thankful that you know we will always be here for you, that regardless of the blessing or struggle we are by your side and on our knees. Keep God in your life, invite him into the everyday workings of your marriage, the bumpy spots and the glorious highs. Never cease to express gratitude for your life, the blessings in it and the people that are a part of it. Know that I am your prayer warrior. Remember that women are in general more expressive and willing to share their thoughts and emotions. Listen.   Open up, share your thoughts and feelings. Allow her to be there for you. Work on the things that irritate or frustrate her and be forgiving in those things about her. You are trusting Ashley with your heart and you have found in her your anchor and your safe harbor. Cherish her, honor her, celebrate her.

Ashley, I am so happy that today you officially become what you have been for a long time now...one of us. You are woven into the fabric of our family and you are a strong and beautiful thread. I am honored and blessed by the relationship we have. Being the mother of sons, I have always believed part of my duty was to raise men that would be good husbands and fathers, I am grateful that you believe I have done that well.  Know God as your confidante, your Rock and your Father. Bring Him into your marriage, the times when you struggle and the times when you celebrate and the times that everything is going smoothly. Always know that I am your prayer warrior. Remember that most men are not talkers and sharers, they don't have a desire to talk through every emotion or experience. Be patient with him, give him the time he needs to think. Work on the things that annoy or aggravate him and be forgiving in those things about him.You are entrusting Christopher with your heart and your future, you have found him to be your anchor and safe harbor. Cherish him, honor him, celebrate him.

My hope is that the bond you create today be as strong, loving and fulfilling as the one the Chosen One and I have, as well as the one that I was created from. I love you both more than you can possibly imagine and today I am a very happy Mama and Mama Beverly. The song below speaks so well what is in my heart. I have prayed for you all your life, Christopher but I have also been praying for Ashley that long, I just couldn't call her by name.