Speech by JC Leahy for Claudia and Jason’s wedding, Oct. 3 2010
THANKS FOR COMING
Ladies and gentlemen, as father of the bride, it is my privilege to make the first speech, and I would like to start by saying what a pleasure it is, on this joyous occasion, to welcome Gary and Ramona, Jason’s parents, together with relatives and friends of both families.
Today, we find ourselves surrounded by relatives and friends who have been so important to us during our lives. All have traveled to be here. On behalf of Claudia and Jason, and Gary and Ramona, and Adalia and me: We welcome you and thank you for your friendship and support over many years – and for sharing this special day with us. By your presence you show your friendship and love, and bring even greater joy to us all.
WORDS FOR THE BRIDE AND GROOM
We are proud to see Claudia – who looks so radiant – now married to Jason. During the time we have known Jason, we have come to realize how special he is to Claudia, and we can see – as anyone can -- that they were made for each other. Jason is likeable, sincere, focused, and steady, and we are very happy to welcome him into our family.
JOY OF BRINGING UP CLAUDIA
It was in 1986 that Claudia made her entrance into the world. We have loved her more than she even knows. She has excelled in many ways from a very early age. She was able to not only walk, but run, at the age of seven months – much to the amazement of her pediatrician. She thought nothing of swimming in the 11-foot-deep section of the pool when she hardly looked old enough to swim at all – which made the lifeguards at the YMCA very uneasy. ………. Now she has excelled again in her choice of Jason a partner for life.
We have loved Claudia even more than she, as a non-parent, may yet realize. It is very emotional for a father to see his little girl go off to another life in another season. We men, many of us, keep our emotions to ourselves as much as we are able; but I’ll tell you a secret. After Claudia’s older sister’s wedding – after Theresa’s wedding, every day for more than two weeks I would find a private place and just cry. I am afraid it will be much the same this time. But there is a season for all things.
PLEASURE OF GETTING TO KNOW NEW FAMILY
It has been a joy getting to know Jason and his family.
THOUGHTS ABOUT LOVE AND WHAT MAKES A HAPPY MARRIAGE
It is customary at this point for the bride’s father to offer some marital advice for the new couple. I would say this: Mom and I have found that it is very important to never go to bed angry. Angry disagreements are NOT made better by sleeping on them. It is much better to stay up and fight --- and to reach whatever resolution is possible before sleeping. And if no resolution is possible before sleeping, at least you can agree to disagree CALMLY -- until such time as Jason may come to his senses.
DECLARATION OF CONFIDENCE
As we who are married all know, there are times in ANY marriage that are challenging. I want to state emphatically that Dali and I have complete confidence that Claudia and Jason will rise to this and meet the challenge successfully.
WEDDING TOAST
And on that note, ladies and gentlemen, will everyone please stand and raise a glass to Claudia and Jason…..Jason and Claudia, we wish you happiness that grows, love that deepens, and peace that endures.
Photos except #1 by Rebecca Monje
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