Carrying Legacy Forward

Welcome lovelies and beau’s, to another Happy Monday—my favorite day of the week! I’m so glad you’re here as we continue the Eternity series. Eternity isn’t just about forever—it’s about being in it for life and beyond. But eternity isn’t all about the magic, the momentum, and the promise of forever. It’s about so much more than that. It’s about the legacy we leave behind.

According to the Oxford Dictionary a legacy is, “the long-lasting impact of particular events, actions, etc, that took place in the past or of a person’s life”. But what does that truly mean for us? How do we honor the legacies of those before us while creating one of our own?

Let’s explore this together.

Beyond the most recognized ways of building a legacy—whether through personal achievements, collaborative efforts toward a common goal, or even creating a family name or brand that carries on for generations—there’s another powerful way to leave a lasting impact. Today, I want to shift the focus to weddings. The union of two people into one is a moment that transcends time, enduring through life’s challenges and shaping the future. A wedding is more than just a celebration. It’s merging of families, histories, and future legacies. In a single day, weddings capture the essence of eternity—the joy, the promises, and the profound sense that this moment will ripple through generations to come.

Much like funerals, I attended many weddings before I fully understood their beauty or recognized all the symbolism. Such as, bringing together all those you love to celebrate something so special is a profound experience. Whether you’re in the bridal party or simply a guest, it’s an honor to witness such a moment. In this post, I’m sharing all of my experiences—the good, the great, the embarrassing, and the downright awkward—so you’ll know what’s truly worth focusing on. Along the way, I’ll also share some lessons I learned the hard way.

Let’s dive in.

A Love That Shaped Me

Sometimes, love isn’t just about romance—it’s about connection, growth, and the way someone leaves an imprint on your life. That’s exactly what he did. While he may not be my Prince Charming, the one I’ll walk down the aisle to one day, he was someone who shaped me for the better.

We met in college—UNT, to be exact—both taking the same course. At first, it was just a small crush, the kind you casually mention to a friend. But before I knew it, I found myself thinking about him more and more. Eventually, the three of us—him, my friend, and I—became a trio, working on class projects and spending time together before and after class.

One of my favorite memories? Competing on Sporcle, especially the World Geography Quiz. We’d challenge each other to name and spell all 197 countries in under 15 minutes. I’d like to think I’d win now, but back then? He had me beat. The irony? We didn’t even meet in a Geography class—we met in a language course.

Over time, our friendship deepened. We’d grab meals together, help each other with errands, and sometimes just talk for hours. But it wasn’t the grand gestures that stood out—it was the small, everyday moments. He made everything feel effortless. I never had to pretend or mold myself into someone else. He accepted me completely, as I was.

He was gentle, respectful, and curious. We shared the same values—the importance of family, understanding where we came from, and figuring out who we were. It was something rare, something out of this world.

But love is often about timing, and for us, the timing just wasn’t right. Even after the relationship came to a crossroads, we remained friends for a while. Except life had other plans and eventually took us in different directions.

Even so, he will always be the one that got away.

As I continue my journey, I’ve yet to find a love that compares. But then again, I’ve never been one for casual flings. I seek something real, something lasting. And if there’s anything this relationship taught me, it’s that the best love stories start with friendship.

Andrew, if you’re out there—thank you. Thank you for making me a better person and for being exactly who you said you were. Your kindness, your presence, and the way you saw me for who I truly am will always mean the world to me no matter how far apart we may be.

A Wish Your Heart Makes

The first wedding I want to discuss was one of the most magical moments of my life—some would say it was a dream of a lifetime, a wish come true.

This wedding was not just any wedding. It was set in a place where dreams come true, a place where fantasy and reality intertwine: Disney. Held at the iconic Contemporary Resort, the ceremony and reception were steps away from the monorail, offering a perfect balance of luxury and whimsy. But it wasn’t just about the wedding; it was about the connections we made, the memories we created, and how those moments have stayed with me, teaching me about the legacy of love.

From the start, the details were immaculate—right down to the Disney necklace keepsake I still treasure. Arriving in a Rolls Royce felt like stepping into a fairy tale. I had my hair and makeup done like a princess, and the entire day seemed straight out of a storybook. But beyond the sparkle and glimmer, it was about the people—our family coming together, all of us spending time at Disney parks and building moments that would last a lifetime.

As junior bridesmaid, my role was to look pretty (of course), but also to help the bride have an unforgettable day. From the rehearsal dinner with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Donald Duck to the reception, where Mickey and Minnie made a special appearance, it felt like we were surrounded by magic.

The weather on the wedding day was simply perfect—a clear blue sky with the sun shining down as we gathered to celebrate love. The castle in the distance, the monorail passing by, and the magic of Disney set the stage. The couple stayed in the Disney Castle and had photos taken there, while the rest of us stayed at the Boardwalk Resort, making memories on every corner.

There was a carefree joy in our time together—like a real-life comedy. I’ll never forget the six-person bike ride, which was hilarious, and the boat rides between the parks and our hotel. We spent a whole day at each Disney park—Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. One of the most cherished memories was when my cousins and I hopped from ride to ride, feeling like the park was ours alone late in the night. While Splash Mountain was often our favorite, ride, Space Mountain holds a special place in my heart. In particular, Space Mountain has always been one of my favorite rides because there’s something thrilling about not being able to see what’s ahead—just pure anticipation and excitement with each twist and turn. It’s a lot like life itself. There’s a certain thrill in not knowing what’s coming next. I’ve come to appreciate the beauty of embracing the unknown, finding excitement in the surprises that lie ahead.

That night, we stayed for the parade and fireworks. While the fireworks were undeniably magical, I experienced a sudden headache that left me cautious around them to this day. Perhaps it was a migraine, or perhaps it was simply the overwhelming energy of it all. Either way, I’ve come to appreciate a quieter, more serene kind of beauty—like the calm awe I feel for drone shows now. The fireworks, much like life’s moments, taught me that sometimes the most powerful beauty is best appreciated from a distance—just as we carry our memories, quietly and fondly, from afar.

But despite all the unbelievable and surreal moments, the best part of the wedding was witnessing my godmother walk down the aisle, looking every bit like Cinderella. It was in that moment that I truly understood the weight of legacy—the way love, family, and stories are passed down through generations. Her grace, her elegance, and her ability to carry forward love made me reflect on how we all carry pieces of each other with us, sharing in a greater story that is timeless.

Dancing Through Time

For the next wedding I’d like to discuss, the journey that felt like an eternity—quite literally. My mother and I drove for hours, with endless cornfields stretching as far as the eye could see. But once we arrived, any fatigue from the trip disappeared. Spending the day celebrating this amazing couple made every mile worthwhile.

This wedding took place in a banquet hall. While it didn’t have the intricate details of the last wedding I attended, it didn’t need them. The first thing I noticed was the grand dance floor and the lively DJ, setting the stage for a night filled with energy. The decorations were beautiful, but what truly made the night unforgettable was the camaraderie—the laughter, the happiness, the pure joy shared among family and friends. Seeing everyone reconnect, swap stories, and simply enjoy the moment created a warmth that lingers in my memory.

Then there was the bride and groom—a couple who radiated love. The groom beamed with pride, but the bride… she was breathtaking. Stepping into the room, she looked as if she had just walked onto the red carpet, elegance and happiness shining from within. They were lost in their own world, soaking in every moment, and it was beautiful to witness.

As the night went on, the atmosphere only grew more vibrant. The food was delicious, but the real magic began when it was time to dance. That’s when my cousin turned to me with an idea—or, more accurately, a push. He wanted me to be the first on the dance floor, to get the party started.

There was just one problem: I was the quietest kid in the family. The idea of being the center of attention, especially in a room full of people I barely knew, was terrifying. So, I refused.

Looking back, I realize how significant that moment was. Weddings carry a weight of expectation—everyone wants the day to be perfect, guests to have fun, and memories to be cherished. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned from attending weddings, it’s that the day belongs to the couple. Their dreams, their love, their moment. Everything else is secondary.

Fortunately, another cousin came along—one known for his bold, outgoing nature—stepped up to the challenge. Within minutes, the dance floor was packed, and the celebration reached a whole new level. The night became a blur of music, movement, and laughter as we danced the night away.

In the end, it wasn’t the details or decorations that made this wedding special. It was the people, the love they shared, and the joy that filled the room—proof that the best celebrations aren’t just about the setting, but the memories made together.

A Love Story to Remember

This next wedding meant a great deal to me. Not only was I old enough to truly understand the significance of marriage, but I was also close friends with the couple. They brought so much love and sunshine into my life, always finding a way to brighten my day, no matter the season, weather, or circumstances.

Originally, I was invited to be a bridesmaid. But as life often reminds us, plans don’t always unfold the way we expect. In the end, I was a guest. While the news was a bit of a surprise at first, there was nothing that would prevent me from being there on her big day. After all, I still had the joy of witnessing my best friend marry the love of her life.

As for the road trip, it was a long one. But it was an exciting new adventure. However, my excitement was nearly impossible to contain as I packed my bags, anticipating the reunion, the celebration, and the memories waiting to be made.

Somewhere along the way, I witnessed a massive speed trap—six police cars stopping six drivers! It was insane!! What I took from it was that while life moves fast, if we don’t take a moment to breathe, we might miss the beauty unfolding right in front of us. And let me tell you, that drive was one of the more beautiful trips I’ve been on. Aside from that incident, it was a calm, scenic route.

After checking into my hotel and getting settled, I reached out to my friend. I had originally planned to help set up for the wedding, but the plans changed. My best assumption? Wedding stress had set in. It’s understandable—between the costs, making sure guests have a good time, and simply absorbing the magnitude of the moment, weddings can be overwhelming.

Instead of helping with the setup, she suggested I spend time with her soon-to-be husband and brother to give her some space. So, we went for a game of mini golf. It was fun, but the whole time, my mind kept drifting back to my friend. I wanted to be there for her, yet I also didn’t want to add to her stress. So, I made the most of it. Both were complete gentlemen. In hindsight, maybe the normalcy of that small moment was exactly what was needed before the big day.

The morning arrived with the crispness of fall in the air—a beautiful, cool day with clear blue skies. Love was everywhere. The wedding was held at a church, and from start to finish, the entire day felt like a dream.

Of course, no wedding is without its drama, but none of it was the couple’s doing. They handled everything with such grace, proving that no matter what life threw at them, they were in it together.

A moment that stole the show? When their pups served as ring-bearers, trotted down the aisle with the rings. It was an unforgettable sight, an added touch of love and personality to an already special day.

But what truly melted my heart was the groom’s reaction after they said their vows. With pure happiness, he exclaimed that they were finally husband and wife. That moment—his unfiltered joy, their undeniable love—was beyond words. It was one thing to witness their union, but another to see my best friend marry the love of her life. It remains one of the happiest moments I’ve ever witnessed, and one I’ll cherish forever.

After the ceremony, we all gathered outside for photos, and by sheer coincidence, I matched the wedding’s color scheme. The funny part? My friend had shared the color scheme with me back when they got engaged, but for some reason, my brain only registered some of the shades. I had even checked in with her about my outfit throughout the process, and she assured me she knew what I was wearing. Looking back, I think she was a little confused about how I didn’t realize the full palette. And honestly? I still don’t know why I didn’t put it together.

Meanwhile, the reception dinner was held outside, right next to a breathtaking blue lake. We indulged in the ultimate comfort food, but more than anything, I soaked up every moment I could with the bride. From driving her from the church to the reception to sharing small but meaningful moments during a walk and boat ride, every second felt like a gift.

The days after the wedding were just as special. The whole trip felt surreal, as if I were living in a dream. I even had to pinch myself a few times just to make sure it was all real.

But that’s the beauty of moments like these—they remind us that some dreams aren’t just for sleeping. Some dreams we get to live, fully awake, surrounded by love, laughter, and the people who make life magical.

A Sweet Surprise

While much of this wedding remains a blur in my young memory, what stands out is the feeling of stepping into something new—a new beginning, love expanding, and the start of lifelong connections.

The most precious gift that came from this union was my brother. Though I may have been the annoying little sister trailing behind him, we built a bond that would shape so many of my favorite childhood memories—hide and seek, video games, and road trips that stretched across states. He was my built-in best friend, though I didn’t realize it at the time.

Then there was the moment—the unexpected surprise. Sitting at the reception, I was mesmerized by the elegant silver dishes placed neatly on the table. And then I saw it. A perfect scoop of what I assumed was ice cream, just waiting to be enjoyed. Without hesitation, I took a big bite, only to discover… it wasn’t ice cream at all. It was butter.

Let’s just say, I learned a valuable life lesson that day: always double-check before taking a bite of something that looks like dessert. And for those planning a wedding? Maybe make sure the butter and ice cream don’t look too similar—unless, of course, you’re hoping for a reception full of surprised (and slightly horrified) guests!

Despite that little mishap, what I remember most from this day wasn’t the butter fiasco, but the warmth of the start of something new—a family coming together, and a new bond with my new brother.

For Eternity & Beyond

Each wedding I’ve experienced holds a special place in my heart, and together, they weave a beautiful tapestry of love, connection, and the enduring legacies that weddings celebrate. From the fairy-tale elegance of Disney to the simple joy of a local celebration, each one has shaped my understanding of what it truly means to join two lives together.

Weddings are not just about the details or the grand gestures; they are about creating memories that transcend time. They mark the beginning of a shared journey, the kind that echoes through generations. Whether it’s the magical atmosphere of Disney or the more intimate moments with friends and family, the laughter, joy, and love are what truly stay with us, carried forward as part of the legacies we create.

Each celebration reminded me that the real beauty lies in the moments we share—moments of happiness, vulnerability, and unity. These are the memories that live on, just as love itself does. They remind us that even as time passes, the connections we make, the lives we touch, and the love we give continue to shape the world in ways that will last for eternity.

Ultimately, it’s these moments, these memories, that hold the most meaning. Weddings, in their many forms, are more than just a day—they are a celebration of legacy, of love, and of the memories we carry forward with us, etched into eternity.

If you’re enjoying these stories, stay tuned for part two, coming out on Monday, March 31st, 2025. I’ll be diving deeper into more cherished memories with those I love most, but I’m also sneaking in some bonus content—something I haven’t shared with just anyone. Curious? You’ll have to come back next week to find out!

As a signature of my blog, I’d like to end this post with a suggestion to “Pass on kindness.” There’s no time like the present to Inspire Those Who Inspire You. Acts of kindness, no matter how big or small, can have a direct, positive impact on someone else. Go out there today and change someone’s life for the better!

***These are my personal opinions and may not be those of my employer.***