For the second year in a row, we ushered in the first day of spring, down in Jackson Hole, for a wedding gig. I’ve been officiating weddings up and down the valley in and around Jackson Hole, WY, for many moons now, but this was a first. A wedding smack dab in the middle of Town Square, under the famous elk antlers.
When you’re officiating a wedding for a heavy hitting power couple (both of these individuals are exceptional, together they’re a straight up PowerPack), Town Center it is. My counselor, Dr. Wimberly, told me earlier this week that, “Evil exists in the world to strengthen the good.” Like many of Wimberly’s thoughts, the timing was perfect. These are good, courageous and noble people. This couple and their friends, have dedicated their lives to fighting the evils of the world, fighting darkness at home and abroad, to keep us safe and secure—some straight up Luke Skywalker’s and Leia right here.
It’s not often you get to reference fighting drug cartels, international terrorism or securing foreign embassies in a ceremony, let alone talking about some seriously heavy and fascinating stuff (like three minute breath holds and free diving in Guantanamo Bay) at the reception, but so it was. And the reception at The Wort, post ceremony, was the stuff of legends. It was a small gathering of some of the most accomplished and yet humble, kind and welcoming people we’ve ever had the privilege of sharing time and space with.
It’s always refreshing to spend time around people who don’t let insecurities captain the ship, because then we are free to operate from a place of curiosity, intrigue and wonder; functioning from these parts allow us to truly connect with others, which represents a powerful way to walk through this world. There wasn’t a hint of pretentiousness, despite the awe-inspiring life experiences these folks shared—the power of perspective was palpable. My daughter, Kamiah was like, “Daddy, these guys are straight out of a Marvel movie.” And they welcomed my little family like ohana, and in the days since the wedding, we’ve continued to receive inspiring, loving and thoughtful text messages from members of the wedding party (members of an elite fraternity), with words of encourage for my daughter, who has shown interest in following a similar path to these special agents.
I’ve said it many times before, but this one sure shined a light on how special this officiating journey is; getting to learn and tell people’s story, sharing in the magic of their special day is a gift and an honor. Celebrating with this couple’s people was potent and memorable. And the icing on the cake, was having Amanda and Kamiah there for the duration. We’re still riding the wave.
WNbL, mwl
Photo by Sarah Eder at https://sarahsoulseedphoto.com/
Visit my wedding officiating site https://michaelleachweddings.com/