A good friend just got engaged. She is walking on cloud nine. The week before her engagement she was hired to be a peer advocate for the state. Her dreams of a meaningful life with happiness and love has coming true. It’s what we all hope for. Everyone can have the life they want. Yet it doesn’t surprise me when I’m asked, “How could you let her get married? Aren’t you an advocate? Shouldn’t you be interested in her health and safety?”
First, this is her life and her decision. She doesn’t need my approval. She has asked that my husband and I walk her down the aisle, to which we gladly said yes.
Second, yes, I am advocate. One who believes that people have the right to have the life they want. I can provide guidance and support, but I do not exercise my will over a person’s personal choice, independence, and their ability to make decisions. I have seen people make choices that change their lives forever for the better and for the worse. I respect and support families who work hard to make sure their child receives the opportunities in life they deserve.
Third, health and safety has been used so much to question and restrict a person. This is too general. How is getting married an issue of health and safety? If we are being honest about what we asking, let’s just say she is well aware of what it means to be a wife and build a life with someone she loves.
All I can say is – let us celebrate! Families who dream of this for their child, give support and love. Those of us, who are professionals, be humble that what we work hard to do in supporting people to have a meaningful life is fulfilled.
How honest and earnest they are in their hopes to be married. I have seen some family and friends take marriage lightly. They focus on the wedding and not the marriage. The journey in life for us all has ups and downs. We must make a choice on being caring human beings. Are we there only when it’s good or are we along for the ride?
In the end, Congratulations! I’m proud and happy! My love to you both!