Courage in a Wedding Dress

Courage comes dressed differently each day.  Today it came dressed in wedding attire. While I suppose there is debate about whether marriage is a courageous act, today it certainly was.  Most people don't have a clue when they get married what the years ahead of them will bring their way.  The two today know.  She has Stage Four liver cancer.  Their time is measured in months not years.  They are squeezing every moment of joy and life into the remaining time.  As they stood at the front offering to each other the vows they had written, there wasn't a dry eye to be seen.  The love that radiated from them had a deep rich glow which is born of knowledge and hope. It was clear this love has been tested and tempered by the reality of life and was only made stronger in the testing.  For those gathered there, it was a sacred, holy moment as we were included in the circle of that courageous love.  We were deeply moved and touched by their ability to affirm love in the face of death and hope when most others would have chosen despair.
   Today courage was dressed in wedding attire.  Tomorrow it may be dressed in a hospital gown.  We never know where it will show up or where it's face will appear.  However when courage wanders through, we are all empowered and inspired by its presence.
     May light and love enfold those who today took the courageous step to love in spite of the difficult journey ahead.  May your love give you strength and hold you always.