My Best Friend's Wedding

Once, when I was four years old, I sneezed while sitting near the playpen of my toddler sister, Gina.  For some reason beyond my comprehension, she found it hilarious. This started what was, for a short time at least, our favorite game. I’d pretend to sneeze repeatedly – launching myself into bigger and louder displays each time, and she’d crack up like I was performing stand up comedy. The Sneeze Game drove our mother nuts, but Gina couldn’t get enough of it. I realized then, that I loved making my sister smile.

As she grew older, Gina became my co-conspirator, my confidant, and my best friend. We shared just about everything. We even shared a bed on those nights when monsters lurked in the shadows and we were too scared to close our eyes. She’d fall asleep curled beside me, trusting that I’d keep her safe. I’d do my best to be her protector, but there were times when I’d secretly pray that if the monsters came, they’d get her first.

Looking back, it seems like yesterday that she was so small and unsure of the world around her. Yet, my sister is all grown up now. She possesses a confidence that draws people toward her, so it came as no surprise when she announced that she was engaged to be married. She asked me to be her maid of honor, and I was touched beyond measure – that is to say, I was…until she showed me my list of duties.

To my horror, I found that the maid of honor is responsible for over twenty tasks. These include everything from planning the bridal shower to holding up the train of the wedding gown so that it doesn’t trail in the toilet when the bride uses the bathroom on her special day. The list got me wondering what sadistic soul had come up with this job description. I suspected it had to be a little sister intent on getting revenge upon her older sibling for silently offering her to the Boogeyman back when they were kids. I did some checking to be sure, though.  

According to several sources, including one called The Bride’s Guide: dessy.com/s/docs/bridesguide.pdf, the concept of having bridesmaids dates back to ancient Roman times when 10 witnesses were required to observe the sacred union. During those days, it was believed that the bride was susceptible to be targeted by evil spirits intent on ruining her happiness. The bride’s witnesses dressed like her and stood at her side during the ceremony to confuse the evil spirits, who would be unable to detect which woman was the bride. Essentially, they were her protectors.  

Surprisingly enough, this odd new information helped me to come to terms with my role as maid of honor. I was reminded that my sister’s wedding day is not about me. It’s about ensuring that nothing disturbs the happiness of my best friend. I know that it’s a task I can accomplish, because just like when we were kids, I still love making Gina smile.

 

Angie holding Gina, 1983