Listen to Your Heart

On Saturday, December 7, 2024, I officiated Brielle and Jared’s wedding ceremony at Rancho Luna Escondido in San Miguel de Allende, México. Here are the remarks I shared with them and their guests:

Brielle describes the genesis of their relationship: “A little more than three years ago, my life took a turn for the better when I swiped right on Bumble and Jared, and I matched. As a huge fan of reality TV, particularly Bravo shows, I was immediately drawn to his profile when I saw that he shared this interest. We both were not great at responding on the apps, and Jared gave me his number to text.” 

Jared picks up the story from there: “When Brielle and I first started talking, I noticed she ended every sentence with at least one exclamation mark—sometimes up to five or six. I was struck by how upbeat and happy she seemed, even through text. I wouldn’t describe myself as the most cheerful person, so interacting with someone so genuinely positive was captivating. I later realized that this was her natural demeanor—she's truly one of the happiest people I've ever met.”

Their first date almost didn’t happen. Brielle says, “We started to text and tried to arrange a date. Jared had to reschedule our date…twice and even suggested that I could opt out if I wished. I joked and said, ‘Wow, already trying to get out of meeting me.’ As I joked, I figured why not try once more. Something in my gut told me to meet him, and I am grateful I followed that instinct.”

Following that instinct truly paid off. As Jared says, “Brielle and I have spent the last three years building a life together, sharing incredible highs and navigating serious lows... Throughout it all, we've been each other’s support system, confidant, cheerleader, and best friend. I truly couldn’t imagine a better partner or a happier life. I wake up every day feeling incredibly lucky and grateful to have found her.”

Brielle agrees: “Jared is my best friend, my soul mate, my home, and my partner in every adventure. We love exploring the world together, trying out restaurants as well as going to our usuals, watching movies, plays, and musicals, playing games… and simply enjoying each other’s company. Whether we are working out, taking walks, or binge-watching TV shows, every moment spent with him is filled with happiness, laughter, and even more love…” 

As a child of the 80s, I believe the lesson Brielle and Jared teach us is simple to me, as the Swedish duo Roxette put it years ago: 

“Listen to your heart

When he's calling for you

Listen to your heart

There's nothing else you can do

I don't know where you're going

And I don't know why

But listen to your heart

Before you tell him goodbye”

Thank you, Brielle and Jared, for this valuable lesson. Thank you for listening to your heart. May we all learn from your example.