A couple of weeks ago I had the great privilege of being a Best Man. My best mate Sam at long last married his fiancee Katie and they had a fantastic wedding at the magnificent Horsted Place in East Sussex.
The day had all the best bits that it ought to - Katie was the stunning bride in a beautiful dress, the weather could not have been better, the food was outstanding and there were tears at the altar. I was lucky to be able to share the Best Man role with another of Sam's best mates (and mine) - Rob. Having been present at other weddings where the Best Man is wound up all the way until his speech is over, I was glad to share this great honour with Rob. We don't often see each other these days, but planning the speech and elements of the Stag Do brought us together and refreshed the bonds of friendship between us. It also meant that we were quite relaxed on the day and could enjoy such a special occaison properly.
Six old friends went to Tenerife together, "The Stag", "The Jackal", "The Bishop", "Peacey", "Wiseman" and "J.P." "Peacey, aka Keith, I've not seen for ten years. But all those ten years have done is age us a little. Other than that, it was like I hadn't seen him for a month. Still the quiet, laid-back, funny guy I've known.
We had great sun, good accommodation, fantastic food, a little too much beer, a lot of laughter and the comedy moments of the stag being forced to take an inflatable bride out on his last night of freedom. Not a cross word or moment of stress, the only soreness or pain we experienced was the sunburn. It was somewhat of a shame to come back (alhough I'm not missing being harassed into going into a particular bar or restaurant everywhere I go!)
Two weeks later, we'd grouped again for the wedding and were joined by those who were unable to make the Stag Do. Family and friends of Sam and Katie, congregating to watch them get married and celebrate their special day. And what a special day it was. I've never been to a civil marriage partnership before, but it was beautiful and tear-jerking. Katie's sister and Sam's cousin each gave a beautiful reading.
The most significant thing for me is that they chose to get married. In our current age where people choose to enter into long-term relationships but not marry, this decision stands out. Sam & Katie have been together for a number of years, but have still chosen to take this step of lifelong commitment. In a disposable, irresponsible society, they've publicly affirmed their love and commitment, taking responsibility for their relationship and one another. A loving couple, now husband and wife united, til death do them part. My friends, much respect and love goes out to you both.
S & K - it was an honour to be a part of your special day and to share in the celebrations of your marriage! Congratulations and thank you.
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