Water Signs: A Story of Love and Renewal

Saint Ambrose Roman Catholic Church, Deerfield Beach, Florida

Breathtaking arrangements of red and pink roses adorned the

raised marble altar, creating a stunning accompaniment to the massive

golden crucifix that glittered in the sunlight streaming though dramatic

stained glass windows. From a distant choir loft, the stirring serenade of a

professional organ filled the room with the romantic notes of Pachelbel's

Canon in D Major-the bride's preferred arrangement, prompting the

formally attired congregation to rise to their feet with joyful anticipation.Ken Lockheart stood at attention at the end of a white satin runner,

clad in his black tuxedo. Though a grown man of 41, he felt and looked

like an exuberant 25 year-old as a permanent, radiant smile lit up his

handsome face. While his sparkling blue eyes awaited the vision of his

beautiful bride, he shivered with excitement as the electrifying pulses

coursed through his body.

Madeline Rose exuded pure femininity and loveliness as she gracefully

walked on the arm of her beaming father, a fairytale vision in a scalloped,

off-the-shoulder, silk shantung white gown encrusted with iridescent

crystal and heavy lace. Her satiny auburn hair was caught back at the

crown with a shiny tiara, from which a lightweight, floor-length veil

floated behind her. In her arms, she carried a gorgeous bouquet of

crimson roses, whose sweet fragrance permeated the air and

complemented the scattered petals beneath her feet.

When her deep amber eyes met those of her waiting groom, her heart

and soul flooded with an intense gratitude, borne out of profound

wisdom, knowledge and experience. By the grace and mercy of God, here

she was finally about to marry her one true love at the end of a long,

arduous and oftentimes broken road.