We are all equal in the fact that we are all different. We are all the same in the fact that we will never be the same. We are united by the reality that all colours and all cultures are distinct & individual. We are harmonious in the reality that we are all held to this earth by the same gravity. We don’t share blood, but we share the air that keeps us alive.” – C. JoyBell C.
As beautiful as the church was, with its beautiful paintings blanketing it’s towering walls, nothing was more lovely than looking at two kindred spirits, standing together in unity. And as the priest was going through the sermon, I would see them glance at each other. Smiling. Excited for the future that will be in store for them. They have already overcome, what I think is the most difficult for even some couples to comprehend. Which is acceptance. Acceptance for what you can change and acceptance for what you CANNOT change in your partner. Maria is catholic. Tuan is a buddhist. Under normal circumstances the difference in their faith, beliefs and culture would have dissipated their relationship by now. With pressure brought upon by the very families that some couples try so hard to satisfy. But there were no grudges nor resentment here. Only two families from two different backgrounds getting along. I see Tuan’s parents, who are buddhists, sitting in the pews. Happily engaged in a catholic ceremony. Elated to see that their son is about to marry the girl that he has loved for so long and with all his heart. And I’ve already seen Maria’s dad attend every occassion that happens at Tuan’s house to know that he has accepted him as part of his family even before this wedding. I am sure Jesus, or buddha or whoever your preffered higher-being of choice was happy that day. Happy that two people were able to put aside their differences for the sake of LOVE. Small acts of humanity like these might be minute in the grand scheme of things, but a philantropist by the name of W. Clement Stone once said “There is very little difference in people, but that little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is attitude.” If there are more people with attitude like this, my faith in humanity might just be restored.
