1

If this were paradise--fall would never fade;

the leaves so red and orange would always glow

in the wonder of the autumn light, and the shade

of shadows from the trees would never go,

and the ancient sun and moon would always shine

and fill our endless days with fragrant air,

and we would laugh and never think of time,

or see our wrinkling skin and graying hair.

But we are here on this October day

to see two lovers standing face to face

where we can hear the loving words you say,

and in this moment share what you embrace,

and the way you look into each other’s eyes

aware that you will bring each other paradise.

2

Today I look at you my darling daughter,

father of the bride, proud of who you are,

savoring this moment like it’s water

from the purest stream, and like a star

that sparkles in the night time sky,

your smile, the radiance from your lovely face

swells in me like the huge and bluest skies,

glad that you have found this love that you embrace.

And when I see you with this lovely man,

remembering how he asked me for your hand,

and saw he’d make you happy as he can,

that you and he would find the promised land

you both desire and so I stand here with your friends,

wishing you a love that never ends.