‘Tell him yes. Even if you are dying of fear, even if you are sorry later, because whatever you do, you will be sorry all the rest of your life if you say no.’
– Gabriel Garcia Marquez
Jenni and Dylan had originally booked a beautiful beach resort in Mozambique for their wedding celebration, with family and friends flying in from all corners of the globe. So, like most couples due to be married this year, they have tentatively booked for a new date at the same resort next year.
Determined not to let Corona completely take away from their love story, they decided to move ahead with an intimate ceremony at a private residence in Zinkwazi, KwaZulu Natal on their initial date of 25 July 2020. Although the majority of their close-knit family where unable to attend due to the travel restrictions, the small gathering present would most certainly be considered ‘friends who have become family’ – not to mention their two treasured long-haired dachshunds Michael and Matilde, who took pride of place ensuring everything ran according to plan.
With a warm north easterly wind blowing through her hair, Jenni made her way to a small wooden deck covered by milkwood trees and overlooking the ocean. She wore two rings – one given to her by her mom and another by Dylan’s, in honour of the fact that neither lady could be there on the day; and as a reminder that their love would be with her and Dylan no matter the distance. And although somewhat discouraged under normal circumstances, the cellphones were out in full force to capture every moment of the marriage ceremony on video calls – ensuring all their family members were able to share in the joy of the auspicious occasion.
Coronavirus has already taken so much from our world in the form of lives lost and health scares, loss of livelihoods, economic shutdowns around the globe and loved ones separated. What this couple and their decision to get married this year represents, is mankind’s resilience to adversity and adaptability to change. That love should be celebrated at all costs. That even in times of trouble and uncertainty, we need to hold on to the hope of a better tomorrow.
As we move into the next phase of this global pandemic and celebrate the relaxing of certain restrictions, let us not forget the many valuable lessons that we have learnt along the way. Let us remember the kindness and compassion, the value of community in times of isolation as well as celebration; but most importantly, let us remember to truly live in the present and ‘say yes’ to the moment in front of us.
A very special thanks to Tash from Stories by Goya for capturing this extraordinary day and sharing her #LoveWins energy and enthusiasm!
