Father of the Bride

All brides are lovely on their wedding day. But she glows with her upswept auburn hair, and her blue eyes sparkling under her veil. He steps back and takes a mental snapshot. He never wants to forget this moment. She looks one last time at her reflection, and with a deep breath, calmly takes his hand. He has happily awaited this day, and he has dreaded this day since her birth. This father is filled with mixed emotions. He smiles at his daughter with teary eyes. She kisses his cheek as the music starts. "Procession of Joy" echoes in his ears. All eyes are fixed on the beautiful bride, but his eyes watch his future son-in-law. He looks closely for the groom's reaction. The nervous groom radiates with true love ~ a smile of joy as sweat beads from his brow, and Dad smiles knowing his daughter chose well. A father could want nothing more than this. By Rhonda Johnson-Saunders Tenth place in Narratives contest By Rhonda Johnson-Saunders, February 22, 2012 for Narrative Poetry Contest (Catie Lindsey)