Each of us come from some­where. Our family histo­ries are rich and colorful. Weddings are a great oppor­tu­nity to look into the past for who we are and where we came from. This knowl­edge of our past can help us form healthier and more real­istic marriages, as we incor­po­rate our pasts into our foun­da­tion for the present. Where you come from is important.

Wedding read­ings are a great way to do this. This is partic­u­larly effec­tive if you come from different ethnic back­grounds and both of you use read­ings from your historic past.

Tip: Go do a little research and find out who the great poets and writers are from your ances­tral heritage. Search their writ­ings for metaphors that support who you are and what you believe about love and marriage. Then tip your hat to your ances­tors and include a reading in your wedding cere­mony, allowing those metaphors to strengthen and inform your marriage. (oh and make the wedding cere­mony inter­esting, and how fun is that?)