Friends and Family

This weekend was the best of my life.

As I type this post, there’s a ring on my left hand that didn’t used to be there before. Every time I look at it I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming. But then I see the new ring on my wife’s left hand and realize it’s for real. I may never know how I got so lucky.

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I’m pretty emotional for a guy (I may or may not have teared up in the past when watching reruns of Friends), but the outpouring of love and support at our wedding this weekend got to me like nothing ever before. I’ve never been as happy as I was standing at the altar waiting for Zhou to walk down the aisle, although those of you who saw me probably thought my dog had died. It’s hard to describe the feeling of looking out at my closest friends and family, many of whom had traveled across the country (and around the world) just to be there for Zhou and me. This immense happiness continued throughout the day and was further enhanced by all the kind things people wrote to us in cards, emails and our guest book.

I have always thought of weddings as special events, but never before did I realize how much everyone’s presence meant to the couple getting married. My only regret was not being able to catch up with anyone as much as I would have liked, and for that I apologize. However, the day was as special as it was because of all our friends and family, and for that we both sincerely thank you.

While driving home today, I began to wonder why would Zhou and I want to travel the world when there are so many people we care so much about and that care so much about us back home. I worried that maybe we are taking for granted those that surround us, and I became saddened that it takes an event like this for me to realize what I have here. I started to think it was very selfish for us to embark on this trip.

However, our close friendships and bonds with family members do not happen by accident. They take work to keep up, and can only be strengthened as we become more aware of what means most to us in this world. Sometimes in life we need reminded of what is most important to us – this weekend did this for me. I hope this trip furthers our growth toward becoming the couple that we have the potential to be; whose minds are open to all things and who cherish the people who surround us.

Thank you all for loving and supporting who Zhou and I are now. We will strive every day to grow as individuals and as a couple who deserves your support.

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To my new mom, dad, sister and brother,

I never thought I’d meet a family as caring and loving as my own, but two days ago I joined one. In marrying Zhou, I am honored to become your son, your big brother. I look forward to all the new experiences we will have together as a family, and I thank you for welcoming me so graciously. Amy and Alex, if you ever need any insightful advice or even just someone to watch Ohio State football with, let me know.

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