The wedding went well.
After all the planning, preparation, and anticipation, I believe everyone who came enjoyed being there. Most of all, the bride and groom seemed happy. As a father, that meant a great deal to me.
There were familiar faces, conversations, and moments that reminded me how much history we share with the people in our lives. Watching my son begin this next chapter gave me plenty to be thankful for.
Logan gave a wonderful speech. Seeing one son get married and hearing the other speak on that occasion was something special for me as their dad.
We also took time to honor loved ones who were missing from the celebration. Connor lost his mom nine years ago. Miranda lost her dad. And both of them lost Kiley five years ago.
Their absence mattered, even on such a happy day. The remembrance table gave those we have lost a place in the celebration—a quiet acknowledgment that we still love them and wish they could have been there.
Today, though, I am tired.
My flight back was delayed four hours because of repairs. After an already full weekend, the extra waiting wore on me. When I reached out to customer service, I was told that fifteen dollars was the maximum I would receive. Then the chat was disconnected while I was still typing.
That bothered me. The amount was frustrating, but so was being cut off before I had finished speaking. Sometimes you just want someone to hear you and acknowledge that your time matters.
I wish I could say I handled the whole day with perfect patience. What I can honestly say is that I am exhausted and irritated.
And I am still thankful for yesterday.
Both things are true. My son’s wedding was a happy occasion, and this trip back has been frustrating. I don’t have to pretend the delay doesn’t bother me to appreciate what we celebrated.
Tonight, I’m holding on to the memory of the bride and groom being happy. Logan’s speech. The gathering of family and friends. The time we took to remember those we miss. The relief of seeing a day we had anticipated go well.
I’m also looking forward to some rest.
Perhaps my prayer tonight can be simple: Thank You, Lord, for yesterday. Help me with my patience today.
Some days, that is all I have the energy to say.
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