While big splashy weddings get the headlines, it's true that throughout history some of the most celebrated unions have started with an in camera ceremony. When you are walking in the footsteps of Romeo and Juliet, you know you are on an exalted pathway. And I think THIS TIME we will have a happy ending!

Nevertheless, whether performed before hundreds, or quietly amongst a few friends, a good wedding is one that recognizes an existing bond between two souls, rather than one that, by the act of marrying, struggles to forge one. What we do in exchanging wedding vows is, in part, giving formal recognition to what nature has already created within and between us. We step into a spiritual matrix in which we share in the essential patterns of the universe, and give ritual recognition of our participation in the divine miracle of creation. We who are made from the earth follow the path of our creator in merging our lives in marriage and mirroring the divine creative process. We ask the blessing of that unknown, unnamed presence that has formed us as we join two souls together in harmony with the creative rhythms of the universe. May the breath of Edenic freshness blow life into this new love, the image and recreation of that first which gave birth to mankind.

For the two of you, Miriam and Andrew, this ceremony represents the culmination of a steady movement toward each other, visibly symbolized, most recently, by the joint purchase of this lovely home. With each step you have taken together, from the cyber world to the real, you have made statement after statement of your trust in each other, enunciating your intention of making this life together yours. I know I speak for all who have met you since you have joined us along the banks of Vicente Creek in thinking you made for each other, a lovely couple. I am sure everyone would be surprised to learn that you were not married years ago. You seem to fit each other with an easy grace, and the sense of trust and confidence you radiate, as you trot the globe on various academic grail hunts, makes us think of you as one. Your impatience to get your mate back is obvious and touching.

I feel honored to be the chosen vehicle through which you exchange your vows and help perform the alchemy of making one out of two. Finding a loving and loyal mate with whom to go through life is making the truest gold, the greatest treasure. I hope that you continue to find joy in each other's presence, and always to discover worth and merit in your mate. Nothing is more important than the values you share. Treat each other with love and respect, and you will certainly awaken every morning with filled with joy in being alive. May you be best friends always.

Knowing that we are on the brink of a wonderful celebration, and the two of you eager to begin a lifetime of marital bliss anchored here in the hills above San Francisco Bay, let us proceed. We invite you to exchange your wedding vows.

I Andrew take you Miriam to be my partner and wife, to love and care for, to share both joys and sorrows, as we take the journey together down the river of time.

I Miriam take you Andrew to be my partner and husband, to love and care for, to share both joys and sorrows, as we take the journey together down the river of time.

Jessica, will you please recite the seven blessings?

[SHE DOES]

Then in accordance with the timeless eternal rhythms of creation, and in conformity with the laws of the state of California, I declare you husband and wife, and invite you to seal your marriage with a kiss!