A Rainbow in Someone’s Cloud

On Saturday, May 4, 2024, I officiated Holly and Emily’s wedding ceremony at the Addison Grove in Austin, Texas. Here are the remarks I shared with them and their guests:

Emily and Holly’s relationship illuminates the power of connection and the profound impact we have on each other’s lives. It demonstrates how love and shared values can bridge differences and allow us to weather adversity. 

Emily and Holly connected easily, a connection which quickly blossomed into a bond that felt like family. They found in each other not just a partner, but a confidante, and a source of endless laughter. They support each other through adversity, celebrate each other’s achievements, and above all, make each other feel safe and loved.

Emily cherishes Holly’s kindness, patience, and intelligence, and admires her perseverance. Holly found in Emily a partner who is generous, kind, and supportive. They both appreciate each other’s sense of humor and the joy of being silly together. They challenge each other, inspire each other to strive to be better, and constantly align their actions with their shared values.

One of my favorite quotes from Maya Angelou is, “Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.” This quote encapsulates the essence of Holly and Emily’s relationship. They are each other’s rainbow, brightening each other’s lives and providing support through life’s challenges.

Their shared values, family, hard work, and social justice form the foundation of their relationship. Despite their diverse backgrounds and experiences, their values align remarkably well. They trust each other to uphold these values as they navigate life together and embark on the journey of forming a family. They have already weathered many challenges, and their enduring love and trust in each other bolster their confidence to face whatever the future may bring.

Their love story is a beautiful testament to how love can bridge differences and create a bond that is stronger than the sum of its parts. As we celebrate their union today, let us remember the lessons they have taught us about love, resilience, and the power of shared values. May their journey inspire us all to strive for such depth and authenticity in our own relationships. May we all learn to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.