Rob + Caitlin stood at the alter, bodies turned toward each other and eyes and ears to their pastor. As he recited words from Caitlin’s grandfather’s bible, everyone sat in silence. Caitlin’s late grandfather, had written notes throughout the pages of the leather book; and on the scripture reading that Caitlin + Rob chose for their wedding day, he had 4 words that he believed were key to a healthy and lasting marriage.
In the process of shooting weddings, I feel that I grow every day. Not just as a photographer but as a person. I touched a little on this in yesterday’s post, but this is another WONDERFUL example of what I mean. His words affected me. They touched my heart…and will forever stay with me as I grow and eventually marry the person of my dreams.
So, with all of that being said…what I am planning to write below are not his words but mine. They are my interpretation and what I have taken away from a beautifully written/spoken sermon.
THE FOUR P’S TO A LASTING MARRIAGE: (In translation of his words)
PROVIDER: This is not just meant in terms of finanically providing for the other; but it is said in the light that we should be providers in all ways. We should provide support, love, and be there emotionally for the person that we love. As a husband or wife, we should provide in all realms and in all ways for the other person…be selfless and giving.
PROTECTOR: We should protect each other from physical harm… as well as from emotional harm. We should look out for the other, and keep them from evil or anything that could potentially affect their lives.
PRIEST: I thought this word was particularly interesting. Especially because you don’t hear this word used often in the Baptist faith. But my interpretation of what he meant was that we should be a priest in each others’ lives by praying…being someone to grow with in faith. We should guide each other in the direction of Christ and find strength in each other to help us make good decisions.
PAL: This word is self explanatory and leaves me with a smile. My mom has told me my ENTIRE life…to marry my best friend. And I will. 🙂 Rob and Caitlin most definitely did. I think the sweetest and most wonderful couples whom I admire, are those that have a friendship foundation. It’s obvious that not only do they love each other romantically, but as a friend as well. They lean on each other in good times and in hard times and they share all the wonderful happy memories of life together.
In this moment, listening to the words, I moved silently, shooting the emotion that spread throughout the church. And I was thankful. I am so appreciate of the wisdom and the love that I have admired and documented already…and I cannot wait for what’s to come. Thank you, Caitlin + Rob, for being yet another wonderful reminder of the beauty in life. True love most definitely exists.
