There was my son, standing under the lights, holding a microphone almost as big as his head. His bowtie was crooked, his tuxedo wrinkled, but his voice was strong:

“Hi. I’m Noah. I’m the ring bearer, and I’m nine.”

A few chuckles passed through the room, but Noah didn’t waver.

“I just want to say something about my mom. She’s the best person I know. She works really hard. She makes me pancakes every Saturday, even when she’s tired. And she always helps Uncle Daniel whenever he needs anything.”

Tears filled my eyes.

“My dad is in heaven, so it’s just me and my mom. Sometimes people don’t see how wonderful she is. But I do. And Uncle Daniel does too, even if he forgets. I think everyone should know that my mom is the bravest, kindest, prettiest person here tonight.”