Like Letter Written in the Sand Part Nine

Today Anna-leis would be married to Clarence, the dream she never knew she had, until it came true. The fact that she would not be walking down the aisle seemed less significant than it once had been, as what mattered was that they were in love with each other. Her journey down the aisle did not matter, what mattered was that she did.

Until Anna-leis friend came and arranged for Clarence to take her to the beach, Clarence had been confined to the mother in law quarters. As a matter of fact, she was nervous about the arrangements; she had not been in a car without Clarence since her life had changed, but even though she was not superstitious, she would follow tradition because Clarence valued it, so she valued it as well. After trying to hide a way for a few weeks, she had finally decided to reach out to her best friend, the one who understood her better than anyone else, apart from Clarence. As much as she felt bad for how she had treated Tess, Tess had been understanding and was glad to have her best friend back in her life.

“I apologize,” Tess said. It just took me some time to process all of this.”

“I know that you have nothing to apologize for. If I had been in your position, I would have probably acted the same way. There was a lot you had to deal with, and you still do.”

I have discovered that it is easier to deal with adversity if you have friends by your side.”

In response, Tess nodded, smiling at Anna-leis, grateful that her friend was alive. When Tess first heard about what had happened, Tess had feared that she had lost her best friend, until Clarence had reached out to her and told her that Anna-leis was alive, although she still had a long journey ahead of her.

Anna-leis, I understand that you needed the time, but I wish that you had let me help you.” As Tess assisted Anna-leis in preparing for the day, she said gently.

“I refused to acknowledge the fact that I needed help. I simply wanted to hide from the world.”

“But you are not hiding away anymore. You are living your life, finding love and joy for yourself. “You are blessed to have a man like Clarence who loves you as he does.”

Tess, you will have your moment as well, you will meet your prince.”

As Tess nodded, she was grateful for Anna-leis’ encouragement, but more than that, she was in awe of Anna-leis’ determination, the way she never gave up despite all the challenges she faced.

It was noticeable to Anna-leis that Tess avoided looking at her legs, how uneasy she was, and how she was careful not to offend.

“Tess, I must accept this as my reality for the rest of my life, so there is no need to pretend, and you are welcome to ask questions.”

Tess nodded in agreement. “Believe me, I will, but right now it’s time for us to get going.”

“I will definitely need a little assistance while wearing this dress.” Anna-leis said with a smile. Nevertheless, she did not mind, not today, not when she was about to experience the wedding of her dreams.

Tess nodded, and in a matter of moments they were on their way. Anna-leis would soon be a wife.

Anna-leis was nervous during the ride to the beach, but she managed to make it, grateful that they reached the beach safely. Still, she feared something bad could happen as it had when that drunk driver nearly destroyed her life.

“Anna-leis, are you all right?” Tess asked, realizing that Anna-leis had become more quiet than usual.

“I am a bundle of nerves and excitement. As a matter of fact, I am very happy.”

“I am aware that nervousness and excitement are normal feelings. There is a lot to be excited about for you.”

As I look back, I realize that I have much to be grateful for, I know that the Lord has blessed me even during this difficult time,” Anna-leis said.

“Yes, he has.” Tess agreed. Although I am not certain I would have the strength or grace you possess.”

It is unfair to give me so much credit. I have plenty of days where simply getting out of bed is difficult.”

That makes sense to me.” Tess replied.

Anna-leis nodded as they pulled into the beach parking lot. It was here that she first saw Clarence, and she loved this beach for all that it represented.

The set up, the beauty of the day, and the people who loved her and Clarence brought tears to her eyes. It was difficult for Anna-leis not to start her wedding with red-rimmed eyes, but these tears were tears of joy and gratitude.

Despite all of this, I am blessed. In spite of the fact that I could have died, I am getting married today. I have lost a great deal, but I have gained even more. As far as I am concerned, I am wealthy in the ways that matter most. I know that you did not cause me to be hurt, but you helped me through this, you showed me the blessings. Thank You Lord!

~~~~~~~

Her journey down the aisle culminated in her becoming one with Clarence. Although the terrain was difficult, they had rented a wheelchair that was easier to navigate in the sand, but the difficulty did not matter, the challenges in that moment did not matter, what really mattered was the deep love they shared. It was the way he cared for her, the way she made him feel. It was evident to Anna that God had ordained this, that he had transformed a tragic event into something positive.

After Anna-leis and Clarence exchanged vows, and said their vows, Clarence lifted Anna-leis into his arms for a passionate kiss and a wedding dance. Clarence was going to give her a day to remember, and if she was unable to dance, he would do it for her.

I am grateful to you, Clarence.” Anna-leis whispered to Clarence. It was clear that she was truly grateful for all they had, and all they were building.

It is not necessary for you to thank me for loving you.”

Clarence and Anna-leis watched the sunset on the water long after everyone had left, leaving them both in awe of God’s handiwork. It was an ideal way to begin a new marriage.

Copyright ©️ Michelle R Kidwell 2022, Revised 2023

~