The Marriage

You place your hand in that of someone else - 
Five digits enfolded in the embrace of marriage,
Releasing my hold as I give you away.
 
Given away, but still belonging where you are,
The seal of my blessing added on shared love,
Welcoming the other into the rich history of our past 
As the squeeze of the hand and the smile on the face say it all,
Inviting him to share the life that is ours,
Knowing that you will also be welcomed in theirs
As we find the richness of families linked through you,
Unknown to each other, and still separated by oceans.
 
Yet they also will get to know each other 
Through this simple act, registered in black and white,
Signatures recorded forever, and a certificate to prove it.
 
January 2020
 
To André and Greg