Father of the Bride Speech

Ernest Joseph – So this is my first post about reflections on life, not about running. And what would be better than sharing my “father of the bride speech” on Ami & Charles Jackson’s 2nd wedding anniversary!! As you know, giving his daughter’s hand to her love of her life is one of the most significant event of father’s life. So here it is….

“Ladies and gentlemen, as father of the bride, it’s my privilege to make the first speech, and I’d like to start by saying what a pleasure it is to welcome you all to Ami & Charles wedding.

I want to welcome Charles’ Mom Gerry, sisters, and all the relatives and friends of both families, and to thank you all for coming, especially those of you who have travelled great distances to be here today. It’s really great to see you all.

Today, we are surrounded by most of our friends and family who have been important to us during our lives. And by your presence today, you show your friendship and love, and bring even greater joy to this wonderful day.

Today I must admit that I am the proudest dad in the world to have accompanied Ami today. I think that you will all agree that she looked stunning. Suffice it to say that Anju and I are both very proud of how she looks today and how she has grown up and are both delighted that she has found someone who she loves and cares so much for.

There are two things which we as parents try to give to our children, one is roots and the other is wings. Ami, you have now grown your wings and fled the nest but you will still be loved always and still have roots within our family.

In Charles I believe that Ami has met her perfect partner. Both Anju and I feel he is everything one could hope for in a son in law.

I am supposed to give advice on the subject of marriage, but you two have known each other and been together now for quite some time, so you don’t really need much advice on that front. You have already shown us in last few years how much you love each other, and how well you both work together not only as partners but also as parents. That brings lots of joy and happiness to us and your family and friends. Marriage is the meeting of two minds, of two hearts and of two souls. It is clear that Ami and Charles are a perfect example of this.

Before I wrap up my speech, I want to tell you a story, Charles and Ami…and like all good stories, it starts like this….

Once upon a time, there was a father…and in case if you can’t figure that out, it’s me.

Then one day he found out that his wife was going to have a baby…so I prayed… “Lord, if it is your will, make her a little girl”…And He did.

I was the first one to hold her in my arms… And I looked at her and said…”Lord, make her just like her mother”…and He did.

She was loving…and giving…and so good…and so kind…and so beautiful…

But then I realized I was getting left out….so I said “Lord, make her like me”….and He did..

She could be opinionated, fearless, emotional, over achiever, go-getter…even sometimes hard headed…..Charles, do you realize what you are getting?

So I said…”Lord, enough of that!….make her like YOU….and He did.

He gave her the desire to serve people….specially new born ones needing tender loving medical care…so she decided to come to Uni. of Michigan and become a NICU nurse…..He gave her a heart for missions…and she has trekked all the way to Kenya to work with local hospital near Nairobi…

But still something was still missing….So I said….”Lord, make her happy…” and she met you, Charles..

You see that look on her face?…I never saw that until she met you, Charles…and I am grateful for that…

Today, I am giving you the best thing I have to give…so I wish Ami and Charles the fulfillment of all their hopes and dreams for tomorrow and love and happiness always. May you be blessed with happiness that grows and with love that lasts and a peaceful life together. Thank you.