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The makings of a wedding

This past weekend I had the honor of shooting a wedding on the beautiful Massapoag Lake in Sharon, MA. When emailed by the bride-to-be back in the fall, I was told it was to be a dual Pagan wedding. Not knowing much about the Pagan traditions and certainly never having shot a Pagan ceremony before, I did some research before their big day. I learned that Paganism is one of the oldest religions, rooted in Europe and centered around nature. Pagans believe that nature is the divine core of our universe and that there is no right path, only the path that is right for you. It also can have many sectors and branches, like any other world religion.
But my experience taught me more. From behind my lens, snapping away in the ethereal light of the setting sun, I experienced a group of people gathered for one reason- their love and admiration for two people. This wedding was so unique in its own ways, yet the same in so many others. The mother of the bride still cried. The fathers made their toasts. There was a tender first dance, several silly line dances and many outrageous dances moves. It was a day centered around love and light and hope- and isn’t that what all weddings are?

Hug your mom

This afternoon, I listened to a friend's mother tell us, in shaky voice, "It is a parent's worst nightmare." Wobbling chin and teary eyes, she mutters, "I cannot begin to imagine the pain..." We silently shake our heads, lower our eyes and blink back our own tears; none of us can begin to understand the kind of pain it must be to lose a child, but we know the pain of losing a friend.

Yesterday morning, I had the opportunity to photograph a mother and her ten month old son. In the dewy grass, with the balmy May sun and the ocean breeze, I see such immense adoration. There is an unspoken commitment and bond between mother and son's eyes. I cannot begin to imagine that kind of love.

But I do know what it feels like to be a daughter. I know what it feels like to be the daughter of a remarkable mother; the kind of mother who puts all others needs before her own, who doesn't think twice before doing what she believes to be right. I know what it feels like to be the granddaughter of an amazing woman; the kind of woman who has more strength, loyalty and faith than I will ever know.

I cannot begin to imagine the kind of devotion, strength and love that comes with being a mother, but I do know the kind of respect and admiration that I have for mine, and all those that I have the blessing of knowing.

Never take what you have for granted. I have said it before, but sometimes it so easy to get caught up in the chaos of everyday life, you easily forget, or think "there is always tomorrow." But sometimes there isn't a tomorrow. Hug you mom. Tell her you love her. Call your friend that you haven't spoken to in awhile. Be grateful and gracious and compassionate.