My Wedding  

by Suzan L. Wiener

"Dad," I said jovially, and with blissful tear-filled eyes, "I'm getting married."

"Oh, that's wonderful, Susie," he said, giving me a big hug and a kiss. "You'll be a beautiful bride.”

I knew he was happy for me. He liked my fiancé Howard, and they got along quite well. 

They had gone fishing together a few times and enjoyed it. I didn't go with them because I wanted them to get to know one another. They were the two most important men in my life, and was glad they were forming a friendship.

As we slowly broke our hug, Dad joked and said, "I can't wait to give you away."

We laughed. "How do you mean that, Daddy?" I quipped. I knew he meant it with love, but I was teasing him back.

Our marriage was to take place three weeks from that day. I could see Dad wasn't feeling well, but thought for sure there would be no problem in his attending the festivities. We were getting married in a big hall, and then we'd have a reception afterward.

Dad had always been there for me - when I skinned my knee, when I was in a play at school, and all the other important occasions.

Unfortunately, a week before the wedding, the doctor told Dad that he shouldn't attend. 

He was just too weak. I couldn't believe it. I truly didn't want to get married without him being present.

I thought about postponing the wedding, but knew that wasn't fair to Howard. He was anxious to be united, and so was I. I asked Howard if he would mind if we got married at my parents' house, so my father could witness our union. Howard smiled and told me he thought that was a great idea, as did my Mom and all my other relatives.

The preacher joined us in holy matrimony with Dad's beaming face shining with love and happiness. He seemed healthier than he had in a long time.

The ceremony was beautiful, as though it was in the biggest, fanciest room of all. To me it was even more precious, because I was married in my home, where I was blissful every day of my life.

I was so glad I was finally able to do something for him - the way he had always been there for me.