brides and bridesmaids.

As summer draws to a close, gone are the weekends of brides walking the isle in white gowns, bouquets of red roses, and hours of dancing the night away as friends say 'I do, for the rest of my days.'  That would seem to be the case, until two friends are engaged within a week of one another.  Something now sparkles on their left ring finger and a new chapter is in the works.

For every bride, it would seem that there is at least one bridesmaid wearing a dress she swears will be worn again, truly happy for her friend, but knowing all the while that tomorrow morning brings no indication of a flight to Hawaii and a five-night stay in a honeymoon suite.  There is a strong possibility that the morning would be filled with contentment - a peace in knowing that everything is going to be alright.  Drawing from personal experience and innumerable bits of dialogue with single bridesmaids, it is evident that some days carry with them emotions quite contrary to bliss.  Singleness allows for financial freedom, an abundance of play time and independent decision making, but it can be a recipe for loneliness.  Even in humility and gratitude, a deep longing for companionship remains. 

To my single ladies in waiting who have known this void:

My heart hurts in my chest for you.  I can tell you that I have felt the same sadness and frustration that you speak of more often than I would like.  I don't know what avenue God will use to bring the amazing men into our lives that He is preparing (they might just need more "time"), but I cling to this:  "Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart." There is no question in my mind that you have been created to love - to passionately, faithfully love someone who has the capacity to pour that same, selfless love right back into you.  I wish I could be by your side, to give you a giant hug, but I have a feeling we would both be in tears. Know that I am praying for you and will always be a listening ear whenever you need me!

And another thing: when you feel anger rising in you, I believe it is a valid emotion that should be expressed.  It saddens me when we stuff our feelings and become jaded by our frustration.  Happiness may come and go, but I hope joy always characterizes our lives!  So, be mad, cry your eyes out, scream into a pillow and. . . know that the best is yet to come!!!

Shine On,

Dee