Love is one of the highest experiences that we as human beings can have. It can add depth of meaning to our lives. The day-to-day companionship – the pleasure in doing things together, or in doing separate things but in delighting to exchange experiences – is a continuous and central part of what two people who love each other can share.
Marriage symbolizes the intimate sharing of two lives, yet this sharing must not diminish, but enhance the individuality of each partner. A marriage that lasts is one which is continually developing and in which each person is individually developing while growing in understanding of the other. Deep knowledge of another is not something that can be achieved in a short time, and the real understanding of the other’s feelings can fully develop only with years of intimacy.
This wonderful knowledge of another person grows out of really caring for the other. Thus it is possible to share not only joys and successes, but also the burden of sorrows and disappointments.
To be known in this way is a priceless thing, because such understanding and acceptance makes it easier to live with our problems, our failings, and our worries.
While marriage is the intimate sharing of two lives, it can enhance the differences and individuality of each partner. We must give of ourselves when we are in love, but we must not give ourselves away. A good and balanced relationship is one in which neither person is overpowered or absorbed by the other. Thus it is out of the tension between separateness and union that love, whose incredible strength is equal only to its incredible fragility, is born. |
Bride, Groom you are two lives….two people…so very different, yet so similar. you have chosen a path that few dare to bridge, and in doing so you have the rare and wonderful opportunity of reaching beyond your own, and embracing the beliefs of another. Learn from this experience, and share the joy of your new found understanding. As you blend your lives, know your journey has only just begun. Face the future with care, trust, honesty, and kindness. These are the fruits of love. Together you stand sharing your future as it comes. Leave your past and face buds that are yet to blossom for you. |
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