April
10th
Dear
Catherine and Vincent,
I'm honored that Mary and Rebecca have asked me to be a part of the gift
they've designed for your third anniversary. I hope I can do it justice.
As I think about the things I'd like to say to you, it has occurred to
me that I must hold the unique position of being the only one to know both
of you your entire lives. No, I won't go into the story of Vincent's first
few days of existence. Jacob would have my head if I tried to steal that
topic from him, so I'll leave it to his annual orations at
Winterfest!
And, don't worry, Catherine, I'm not about to trot out that old joke about
how we first met -- although I can't promise that you've heard it for the
last time. Come to think of it, maybe I'd better get some new material
one of these days -- and I feel certain that the two of you are just the
ones to provide me with it!
In all seriousness, I've come to look upon both of you almost as my own
children. I've watched you grow up over the years -- unique, beautiful
children growing into equally amazing, extraordinary adults. The
lives you live are full of honor and goodness. Your strength of character
and generosity of spirit are an example to us all. You have
always
possessed these qualities; nothing can take them from you; but it is wonderful
to see how you bring out the very best in each other in ways no one else
could ever accomplish.
I keep thinking of you as you were all those years ago. That sweet, daring,
thoroughly charming little girl trying to hold onto a favorite doll while
climbing the biggest trees in the park, giving all of us a few more grey
hairs in the process. That bright, sensitive little boy -- sometimes serious
beyond his years and at other times as reckless and carefree as any seven-year-old
who ever was. I never imagined that someday you'd meet and fall in love,
but now in looking back, I can see that it was inevitable. The love you
share is meant to be. You are two strong, special individuals, and yet
together you complete one another. You've overcome tremendous obstacles
to build a life together, and now it's clear to all of us that nothing
can or will stand in your way or hinder what is meant to be. I believe
in that -- in you -- more than I can adequately say.
It is a joy to know you, to be a part of your life together. May you know
nothing but happiness from this day forward.
With
love, Peter