In The Quiet Beauty Of Her Womanhood

In the quiet beauty of her womanhood,

tall, serene and slender in the day’s pale gown,

the bride smiles privately behind her veil,

this final step the last first step upon her journey.

Her groom perceives this unseen smile,

leans his own smile forward in response,

and with a loving deference

receives her to her future place beside him.

The congregation shares a collective, silent sigh,

for they too have been awaiting on a moment

so singular in its individual significance,

yet so expressive in the minds of many,

their unsighed sighs as many genuflections

to their memories and history.

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered together ... ."

The priest so soothing, the hymns so certain,

the prayers so honest, each voice so firm,

the ring so golden, the kiss so gentle;

the plangent descant of choir and organ

emotive of the echoes of quiet,

ancient ceremonies still circulating

within these ancient, quiet walls.

The now-raised veil, the slow procession,

the joyous smiles, the low-murmured recognition,

the broaching into sunlight, the pressing throng,

the touching cheeks, the clasping hands;

this swirling breeze of discreet congratulation

amidst these ancient stones, these burnished autumn trees.

The togetherness of the limousine;

the reception of the guests; the pride of parents;

the pleasure, evident, of friends;

the speeches, evoking laughter, tears.

And throughout these scenes,

underscoring all, is one pervading, ancient phrase:

"Those whom God hath joined together,

let no man put asunder".