Love is in the Air! What can be better. And in the wise words of Mary Oliver, “If you suddenly and unexpectedly feel joy, don’t hesitate. Give in to it.”

I’ve had “Don’t Hesitate” pinned up by my desk for years, but never was it more apt than now. It was read as part of my daughter’s wedding ceremony. She and her partner are two of the kindest, most committed people, all too aware of lives and whole towns destroyed. They are active in the causes that matter to them (which are many) and live their values in all ways. In a world of unkindness, they are kind. Their kindness is a way of fighting back against the darkness. Their joy will never be made a crumb.

We all feasted on joy this weekend. The wedding was outdoors. We were surrounded by old cedars, the meadow was full of daisies, and we could hear the crash of the ocean waves in the background. There were friends and family, babies, and people soon to have babies. There was cooperation and full participation. Everyone took on something that helped make the day beautiful. Even the weather cooperated with the rain giving way to sun at the same time as the wedding started.

This was a three day gathering and a community that made it happen. We got to know everyone better. My daughter’s partner’s family is lovely, thoughtful, creative, full of heart. There were wonderful conversations and I came away amazed and heartened by the awareness and optimism of my daughter’s generation. They are living their values, using their skills, and committed to making this difficult world a place where there is still love and hope.

My deepest gratitude and love to all.

“Joy is not to be made a crumb.”