A Wedding, A Promise, A New Chapter
This weekend, I had the privilege of witnessing my little cousin walk down the aisle, radiant in every way, as she embarked on a new chapter of her life. Weddings have a way of filling the air with a certain magic, don’t they? A mix of joy, hope, and the realisation that life is made of these moments—both fleeting and monumental.
As she stood at the altar, with her partner, it struck me just how symbolic this ritual is. Two people, each with their own histories, families, quirks, and dreams, choosing to intertwine their lives. It’s a decision that’s both deeply romantic and undeniably practical—one that requires courage, intention, and a leap of faith.
The Beauty of Beginnings
I think the beauty comes from the idea that weddings are more than just a celebration of love; they’re a celebration of beginnings. Watching my cousin exchange vows, I found myself reflecting on the weight and meaning of those promises. The ceremony, with its deeply Christian roots and formalities, was so different in feel from our own, which leaned more toward a personal celebration of love and commitment. Yet, at their core, both ceremonies shared the same heart: the promise to grow together, to navigate life’s storms, and to seek joy not only in the huge milestones but also in the quiet, everyday moments that truly shape a life.
There’s something especially humbling about seeing someone you’ve known since childhood step into this new identity. In that moment, she wasn’t just my little cousin; she was a young woman beginning a journey as a partner, building a life with someone she loves. It reminded me how life is a series of transformations, each one shaping us into someone new and better.
The Weight and Lightness of Commitment
It’s easy to romanticise weddings—the silk, the laughter, the endless toasts. But commitment is more than the highlight reel. It’s the daily, often unglamorous work of choosing each other over and over again. That’s the real beauty of it: the weight of responsibility balanced with the lightness of love.
Weddings remind us of what’s possible—that we’re capable of deep connection, of building something bigger than ourselves, and of believing in the future even when it’s uncertain.
A Reflection on Life’s Seasons
This is where I admit that I am getting old; we left the wedding as soon as the dance floor started (in our defence, with our 11 week baby in tow). Driving home, I couldn’t help but think about how beautiful weddings are. The ceremony and reception reminded me of the inevitability of change and growth — and the importance of embracing it. For me, it was a reminder to cherish the people in our lives and to show up for them—not just in the big moments, but in the small ones too.
It’s these moments, small and significant, that make life feel rich and full. And it’s in these moments that we’re reminded that no matter what season of life we’re in, there’s always something or someone to be grateful for.
