When a son gets married

On the day before my son's wedding, I was asked how I feel? Of course it feels strange that my child is taking a very adult step in his life and getting married. But should that really make me feel?

I have all of the feels, as the kids say today. But putting it into words is harder.

He's marrying his high school girlfriend so they have been together through high school, college, jobs in separate cities and even buying a condo. There's a sense that this piece of paper won't change their relationship. It won't change her status in our family. But it will. That doesn't influence how I feel.

Kids today start their lives long before they get married, so while this is not a step towards adulthood and independence, it is an adult step to legalize his committed relationship.

This feels like the place for a childhood anecdote or the explanation of a Jewish tradition that makes sense in a non-religious context. But I keep avoiding how I feel. I have called this my superpower, suppressing my emotions. And when I try to express them, I am often told the words I use are not emotions.

This is a joyful event and I am very proud of my son. He has grown into a fine young man, as the old folks say. I am proud of how he has matured and proud of how he chooses to live his life. I am very proud of his choice of life partner and wish them the very best tomorrow.

I recognize that feeling in my chest when the Grinch's heart grew three times its size. The joy is overflowing. There is a permanent smile plastered on my face. I've told people at stores that I'm in town for my son's wedding. I can't help but share that feeling.

And now I feel like I can't wait for a grandbaby.