Handfasting

Handfasting as an ancient and beautiful celebration,
known today as a wedding.
At a handfasting the couple (Lord and Lady)
are joined at the hands with a special cloth or cord,
while they profess their love to one and another.
Yet a set of rings still often bears the symbolism of their union.
The ceremony is often pagan oriented,
meaning the elements are thanked, quarters called and the area is outside.
Gazabos, gardens and forest clearings are preferred spots.
The ceremony is based on the couples love
and commitment to "have and hold" one another.
After the words have been spoken, and vows recited,
the couple has the cloth or cord removed, rings can be exchanged,
and then the couple starts their new life together.
All the guests then rejoyce and form an arkway
for the couple to walk through together.

All of this is much like a modern wedding.
Yet one thing that is different is that a Handfasting
does not include "'til death due you part" as a vow.
Often a handfasting is like a "trial" wedding.
One year and one day is the typical timing
in which the couple will seek to build a perfect union.
If at this times end, things have not worked out,
Then either person is free to part with the other.

My wedding was in part a handfasting.
We used a special cord to wrap our hands in,
yet our vows were stated for a lifetime together.
A beautiful and happy lifetime.
Full of joy and love.

May this be what is wished for us...
In Perfect Love and Perfect Trust...