Old Friends October 13 2015
Twenty-eight years ago, I was a freshman at Mercy High School in Middletown, CT. On the very first day of school I was lucky enough to make some wonderful friends. I had a very rough time in middle school. I was a nerd, dressed differently, really, really loved Star Wars -- things that set me far apart from the cool kids at school. At Mercy, I made good friends quickly. Good, lasting friends.
In fact, last year, I ran the Marine Corps Marathon with two of them: Kat and Jen. (Correction: I ran after them at the Marine Corps Marathon...they are both pretty darn speedy.) And this past weekend, I was blessed to get together with them again, as I watched my dear friend Kat marry the love of her life. Jen was a bridesmaid, and Kat and Stephen honored me by asking me to do the first reading.
I practiced that reading, and I had it down. The entire time we drove from Baltimore to Ocean City, I practiced that reading. I was ready. I met with the pastor before the ceremony. I knew what to do. Nothing was going to mess with this reading. And then I saw Kat beaming at her husband-to-be and Stephen lovingly watching his beautiful bride. And I started to cry. Approximately 60 seconds later, it was my turn to read.
I was a hot mess. I was so emotional that Kat had to hold the reading for me while I held the microphone. I had to stop multiple times. Yes, I cried then, and I'm crying again just thinking about it. I am lucky enough to have people in my life whom I treasure, and Kat, Stephen and Jen are three of them. Kat and Stephen's happiness this weekend overflowed my heart, and it just poured right out in the form of the tears I shed at the wedding.
This weekend, I was reminded that the very special people remain in our lives. I am blessed to have some incredibly special people in mine. To Kat and Stephen, may you live a long and beautiful life together. Jen, don't forget the Flat Laura. To Everyone, may you find and cherish your own special people.
Twenty-eight years can go by in a flash