On behalf of Kelley and Jon, I would like to thank family and friends for travelling the length and breadth of the land to be here on this day. Welcome.
We are gathered here to celebrate not only the union of two souls for as many of you know, these two have been joined in spirit for longer than many marriages but to celebrate this transcendence to a higher union, a union both secular and spiritual.
Today is quite appropriate for this celebration, for it is the Vernal Equinox, the time when night and day are in balance; but the darkness of winter will soon give way to the light of spring. For centuries, this day has heralded the arrival of the planting season, a time of growth, and of new life.
Kelley and Jon are beginning a new season in their life together. Thus far they have shared much kindred tastes in books, music, and rum; a deep and abiding love not only for each other, but for demented humor and extremely spicy food.
The rings they are about to exchange are symbols of their vows to continue to share and enjoy their life together, and to embrace the diversity that makes each of them unique.
Jon, do you take Kelley to be your wife, vowing to love, honor, support, and respect her?
Kelley, do you take Jon to be your husband, vowing to love, honor, support, and respect him?
(rings are exchanged)
The following comes from a benediction attributed to the Apaches:
Now you will feel no rain, for you will be shelter to each other.
Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other.
Now there is no more loneliness, for each of you will be
companion to the other.
Now you are two bodies, but there is only one life before you.
May your days be good and long upon the earth!
I pronounce you husband and wife.
