On select, special days once upon a dream the stars line up in our favor and twinkle down upon us, illuminating those secret places in our hearts. This has been one of those days. Actually, it’s been one of those weeks.

My brother’s son, Colton, married his sweetheart, Michelle, in a beautiful wedding on the beach in Long Beach, Miss. The fabulous weather and the young couple, obviously very much in love, set the stage for a wonderful evening. The minister suggested that all the married couples in attendance take the opportunity to renew their own vows as Colton and Michelle exchanged theirs.

It was the kind of day that sparks belief in happily ever after. Shades of blue, pink and purple illuminated the evening sky as the bride and groom promised to love and support one another throughout eternity. Couples all around clasped hands and silently pledged the same. My evening was almost perfect when Mike clasped my hand and softly whispered, “I love you.”

There was only one thing that could make the day sweeter, but I wasn’t expecting it to happen. The mother of the groom motioned for me to come and sit by her as the final song was sung. We had always been very close, but a misunderstanding and the hurt feelings that ensued changed all that. At this moment, with so much love charging the atmosphere, the rift between us healed. We cried together because one of her babies was getting married, and we both realized that life is too short to hold onto hurt.

Weddings are such beautiful occasions. When we focus on these happy moments it helps us to remember the things that are really important. It helps us to have faith in humanity; faith that good times are ahead. The memories of happy days like this one help us to get through the times when things aren’t particularly going our way.

The reception was a celebration of love, family and friendship. It was such fun to see everyone all dressed up and looking sharp. After the bride and groom and parents glided across the floor the rest of us joined in. A little later, with light hearts and smiling faces, we headed for home leaving the dance floor open for the younger crowd.

Today I came home from a meeting and errands to find the stars had not shifted just yet. A dream of mine came true. My first acceptance letter from a major publication came via email. I danced around the house squealing like a little girl! I felt like I had just won the lottery!

Today was one of those happy days that I’ll always remember. Some dreams never come true, but thank you, God, that this one did.

On occasion I wondered if I was just dreaming. I thought maybe I should give up and be happy with the status quo. But I always felt that God had bigger things for me, so I kept on trying to go a little farther. I definitely haven’t arrived, but I’m so glad I didn’t give up!

Jan Penton Miller can be reached at lilsisjan@yahoo.com.