My brother brought his partner to our family dinner today. After the meal was served, he said that he had something to tell us. I don’t think I’ll ever forget these words:

“I am thankful today for family. We have been through many wonderful, exciting, sad, terrible, painful, glorious, and uncertain times together. And now I want to ask all of you to welcome someone who is not only willing, but longing to join our crazy bunch. He wants to shoulder your pain, laugh with you, support you, and share a future with you. This spring, Tom and I are getting married. We hope for your blessing, and covet your prayers.” I was so proud of him, and Tom will be an amazing addition to our family.