Fun, fun, fun
Ana and I tried hard to carefully orchestrate the proper time and method to tell people about our engagement. Telling our families went well. I went home to my parents' place that day anyway to do some work on my car, and during supper, we made the announcement, to the pleasant surprise of everyone gathered. Ana had made an appointment for the two of us to drop in to visit various of her family members, so they knew what was coming. For the next few days, we started slowly telling select people, and then the following Sunday, I announced it at my church.

It was no secret to me that the majority of the congregation was fond of her and supportive of our relationship. Given my public position, we accepted that ours is a public relationship. I was cautious telling anyone at the church that we were dating at first, because being public intensifies what is happening in the relationship. If things went bad, it would really complicate things. Given Ana's great personality and singing voice, she was an instant hit, and lately people had been wondering about how long it would be until we were engaged. When I announced from the pulpit that I "proposed", there was a lot of very vocal support (I wish they'd clap and cheer like that for my sermons).

What's really struck me is the recurring comments that I get. I had no idea how happy this announcement would make people. There have been a few family break-ups in the area lately, which really affects local family networks, so hearing good family news is always extra welcome. In talking to people since the announcement, I have been overwhelmed with the advice and the support people have given us. Comments that are heartwarming and reassuring at the same time. People whose conversations, while genuine, were based only on topics that were formulaic suddenly revealed a personal depth and a loving touch I wasn't sure was there. Here are some excerpts:

"If your marriage is anything like ours, you'll have a lot of fun. Enjoy the ride." (We heard this sentiment from couples ranging from newlyweds to those having celebrated their 50th anniversary)

"I knew it wouldn't take too long with you spending time with that pretty lady before you wanted to marry her ... Just make sure you tell her every once in a while that you love her."

"If someone had told me on my wedding day that we'd be together for fifty years, I'd have thought they were crazy, but here we are. I guess time flies when you're having fun."

"Now we're going to be related." (Not all that touching I admit, but pretty common in a Mennonite church. Turns out that Ana's grandmother is a cousin to the late husband of a woman from my church)

"I can just tell you guys are going to be happy together."

   [ posted by William @ 12:36 AM ]