Jason and Yuriko tie the knot (again)

Jason is near and dear to my heart here in Yamagata. We spend lots of time together on the train going to company classes, we see eye to eye on a lot of issues and generally just have each other's back around here. Even though he and Yuri were married last year in Canada, they decided to also have a traditional Japanese wedding here in Yamagata. What an amazing experience. I wish we had the same kinds of ceremonies in America. The shrine was divided in half and both families sat on opposite sides facing one another. The couple was up the steps with the priest who blessed them 3 different ways. I'm not sure what they all mean, but that's something for me to look up (as mom would say). Just before the couple takes their vows, each member of the family stands up and introduces themselves to the other side. If only for this one moment, the two sides are joined as one family. That was the most touching part for me. Of course, a marriage should be about the two people making a commitment, but in my book, by the time you walk down the aisle, that promise has already been made. The ceremony really should be focused a little more on introductions and celebrations for the rest.