Matthew Jason and Shelby Dale

Yesterday, my youngest brother got married.  Yesterday, we added a beautiful, caring, thougtful woman to the Martin family.  And I couldn't be happier.  I am so glad you are a part of our family Shelby Dale Martin.

Weddings can be a strange thing.  Despite the commitments, and the pomp, and the ceremony, statistics show that many will fail.  I think it's because LOVE is not a thing that can be measured or weighed.  Love is not something that you can monitor to show how "in love" someone is.  Love is unique.  Love is hard to describe.  But, when expressed selflessly, purely, without reservations, without hesitation, love is more powerful than anything in the universe.

Some of my thoughts about the wedding yesterday:

• The day was as near perfect as anyone could want.  The day before the wedding there was an 80% chance of thunderstorms for the weeding day.  But yesterday was warm and sunny with a gentle breeze.  And that was important for an outside wedding.  I took time to take it all in while the music was playing in the background.  And honestly, it was like a scene out of a movie.  The sky was blue with big puffy pillow-like clouds, the gentle breeze was cooling, and the setting was warm and welcoming while classy and elegant.
• The ceremony itself was personal and very appropriate.  I thought the music, the message, and the symbolic things that were done, as well as the reception, all fit the newlyweds very well.
• The firefighters at the wedding were the best.  From the best man, to the ushers, to the crazy dancers at the reception, the wedding was made better by the presence of Matt's friends.  You guys have a supporter in me for sure.
• I had the opportunity to catch up with old friends and family.  It was so nice to find out what has been going on in the lives of loved ones.  But the real blessing was striking up conversations like we had just been talking last week.  I especially enjoyed spending time with Uncle Don.
• And last but not least, the final 2 hours of the night that lead up to the final 45 minutes was the most fun I have had in years.  I will never forget the dances with Brett, Zach, Sam, Shirl, the bride's mother, and yes, even the bride herself.  What great memories were created and what a great celebration took place in honor of the bride and groom. 

It is true that weddings can be strange and that there is statistically a 50/50 percent chance of a marriage ending in divorce.  But, I believe that Matt has done his homework and has married a wonderful woman that compliments him and balances him in a way that only Shelby can.  And I fully expect that Matt and Shelby will be able to make it through the tough times and truly enjoy the good times together celebrating 30, 40, 50, maybe even 60 years of marriage.

So here's to you Matt and Shelby.  God Bless.  I love you both!