Like a bride walking down the aisle

with grace,

in white laces,

in pearls,

and in veil,

ready to give her entirety

to her groom who’s all smiling, standing in front the Holy Grail . . . .

. . . . such a bittersweet moment for a sobbing dad who is giving her away.

Like a nation’s flag,

to which we sing the Anthem that always brings out silent tears;

to which we stand in honor of our beloved country’s pride and glory;

to which we lay our hands

on our chest. . . .

. . . on loyalty and patriotism,

the vets are the best.

Like a prayer,

during which we say contrition with fervor:

Be aloud or in silence,

We clothe ourselves with humility.

We strip ourselves of pride.

We ask for deliverance and provision.

We give thanks and praise—

Amen is a potent affirmation.

Truer than gold;

Purer than spring water;

Prettier than May flowers;

Sweeter than honey,

Is humanity’s greatest legacy:

Love is the most sacred of them all.

It’s sanctity lies on its very essence,

conquering us, all.