The Best Man: Lessons on Love

I played the best man at my dear friend's wedding today. I have known him virtually all of my life; we are more or less like brothers. I can't remember a time when we haven't been friends. I was honored that he chose me to be his best man, and was super excited to be a part of his wedding for I never have had that opportunity, and as a side note whenever there is an excuse to get gussied up in a tux; I am all over it.

I have been reflecting on some of our conversations that we have had over the past couple months. Two in particular have taught me much about love. The first we had on the way to be fitted for our tuxedos. While we were cruising in his car I asked him how he and his affianced were doing. He responded with generalities of their content, but then opened up a little and told of his worries and anxieties. I being the 'great' friend that I am then inquired if he had all of these concerns why on earth was he getting married. He then taught me something very powerful. He told me, "That no matter how many problems they had she still made him the happiest person in the world." He said, "Problems were going to change, but would always be around. When you find someone that you can be happy with while going through your problems...you don't let them go." That is truth. That is love.

The next conversation too place on the night before the wedding after the rehearsal dinner. We were bidding one another farewell for the evening, when he asked me to say hello for him to my now ex-girlfriend. I smiled and nodded, but he knew something was wrong. He inquired and I reluctantly told him of the events that transpired. He offered me his most heartfelt condolences, and gave me a little slap to my practical face. He said, "If you are waiting to get married until everything is right; it won't happen. Look at me, I have no job and am moving to Wisconsin after I get married. I doesn't make sense, I have no idea how it is going to work out, but I know it is what I want to do." I mulled those words over in my mind for the next hour while I drove home; pondering precepts of love, courage and faith.

Although for this wedding I am titled, "Best Man" it is the groom who is the best. Perhaps that is why he is the groom and I just the best man. Have no fear friend for though you may have thought I wasn't listening, or paying attention. You have taught. I have comprehended. I may only understand a tenth of what you said, but I got the point-the point of life, and today am doing okay.