Vow Like You Mean It

I always felt it was brave of couples to recite their own vows to each other during their wedding ceremony.  It’s nerve-racking enough to stand before a crowd of folks with all eyes on you; but to also share very personal thoughts in front of others is courageous.

Vows are meant to be intimate commitments made to last a lifetime. So, is there a right way or wrong way to do it?  Yes. Ultimately, the process gives way to a covenant that births a “marriage.”  Therefore if you chose to write your own vows, keep a few things in mind:

• Your vows should always be authentic to who you are and not cryptic or embarrassing.
• Your vows should always include a promise…a sincere and unwavering oath to your spouse.
• Your vows should always be a loving expression of the depth of your relationship; after all, you have decided this is the person you want to spend the rest of your life with.

To get started, consider jotting down all your thoughts or speaking freely into a tape recorder as if you’re talking to your fiancé. Then, organize your thoughts into a summary of authentic, loving, promises that reflect the depth of your relationship.

Finally, make sure you start writing your vows at least a month prior to your wedding – DON’T wait to the last minute. You want clear and concise thoughts not panic laced banter.

Whatever you say, mean it.  Be brave - vow like you mean it.

It is better not to make a vow than to make one and not fulfill it.
Ecclesiastes 5:5 NIV