One of the obvious benefits of living in paradise is that other people's dreams are only a beachfront and sunset away.
A wedding in Hawaii is one of those dreams for thousands of Mainlanders, for example. Only a relatively select few have the resources to transport friends and families across the ocean for a sacred ceremony in our islands.
On the other hand, if you live here, you simply call your pastor and begin planning the stuff of dreams. For the most part, the friends live just down the road. The reception can be held in a familiar setting.
Everybody just gets out of the way as the bride's mother organizes everything from bouquets to rented chairs at a rehearsal dinner. All you have to do is follow a few orders.
For eons, fathers have given a daughter away and welcomed a new son to the family. Mothers have dabbed at tears while their little girl marched down an aisle toward a new life.
Few fathers and mothers have the opportunity, though, to go through this ritual in a beautiful setting like Maui.
Few brides and grooms get to hear the "Hawaiian Wedding Song" played for them - and actually be in Hawaii.
Our family is having such an event today. The joy of the wedding is more than enhanced by the setting.
Today, of all days, we will wake up and think, "Lucky we live Hawaii."
* Editorials reflect the opinion of the publisher.
