I stood before the audience of family and friends, Father Richardson standing in front of Eric and I, my father behind me.

I opened the folded piece of paper as everyone waited in silence for me to begin my vows; the rustling of the faded notebook papers unfolding from its tight seams created from my tuxedo pants pockets.

I cleared my throat then looked up at Eric, his face filled with curiosity as he waited for me to begin.

And so I did, my voice suddenly quivering with emotion as I began to read my vow. "Dear Mom, it's been a little over 5 years since you passed on but I know you're here with us in spirit and watching over us, wondering if any of the catered food is organic. Don't worry, the vegetable and fruit platters are ALL certified organic."

A few chuckles filled the audience.

"Mom, I'm getting married. Believe it or not, your son Drew is finally doing the deed and committing to a life together--- with a man. When I came out to you at the age of 18, announcing I was gay, you quipped 'Don't tell your father.' Well, you should know Dad is standing right beside me."

My voice began to quiver again as my mind flashed on images of my father and mother teaching me how to ride a bicycle, both looking down at me with smiles and 1960's haircuts and makeup. My mother gently whispering from above, "you can do it, Andrew."

I realized I was very nervous but I continued. "You always told me one day there would be a person that I would fall in love with and marry. Thank goodness I have found Eric. Mother, never in my life have I met someone that makes me feel so complete--- so whole--- someone who nurtures the goodness in me and brings only joy to me. You always taught me to be honest with myself and everyone in my life--- so here I am, finding your words of wisdom have led me to this beautiful man in a joyous celebration of truth and love."

I glanced up at my father and could see his eyes were welling with tears, memories of my mother obviously filling his heart. Seeing his own vulnerability made me suddenly feel overwhelmed, since the fact was here was a sixty year old man embracing a kind of love that he once called 'disgusting.' My father was standing up for me in front of an audience of mostly strangers and I knew the courage that took.

"Mother, our family is expanding today. I embrace them all, and welcome you to join us in our gathering of spirit and love and to bless us all."

I took Eric's hand and put the papers to my side, staring him down. "Eric, I love you. I cherish all of you--- your strengths, your weaknesses, your fears, your complaining, and your bad cooking. But most of all I cherish your truth, you kind touch across the small of my back as we lay sleeping together, your laughter in movies theatres before anyone else sees what's funny, and your allowing yourself to be weak, strong, brave, scared, and real 24 hours a day with me. And now, hopefully, with God's grace for the rest of our lives."

Eric's eyes began to fill with tears, his grip on my hand growing even stronger, as he simply mouthed, "I love you." I faltered again and saw my father lower his head to hide his tears.

Sniffles could be heard in the audience and I realized several people crying. Then, without warning, I started to cry.

Suddenly, I couldn't help but smile at all of this. I turned to the audience of family and friends and said, "Please, now you're all making ME cry."

A welcome roar of laughter spread through the audience. Even though I had more to say, I realized I had already said it. I loved Eric, pure and simple.

I put the prepared letter away. "Mom, I got one thing to say. Thank you for your love, because it's allowed me to love--- and I will cherish your gift everyday. Dad, thank you for being here. And Eric, let the adventure continue. I love you."

I leaned forward and kissed my husband. Everyone applauded, more sniffles echoing across the crowded yard as Eric's strong hands embraced my shoulders, our lips still locked, bringing me closer to him in a tight embrace.