SAYING I DO

For the first time in my life i attended the church service of a wedding. It wasn't as boring as i imagined, actually it was an eye opener. The homily, families, ashebi women and the couple told me that the union called marriage is serious one. A union that goes beyond man and woman to both families uniting as one. Another lesson i grasped is that marriage isn't beans, it must be with the right person or else when the officiating father/pastor asks "will you take this ..." trust me you'll hesitate.

Way before all the ceremonies there must be an agreement between the guy and the girl. Probably they'll start out as boyfriend runs, then if she's found worthy it turns to fiance runs; if still worthy, the ring enters the finger. Between that transition period, a question will be asked of the girl "will you marry me".

Often, yes often i wonder how i'll ask that life changing question "will you marry me". Many would imagine its scene as one set in a restaurant(not mr biggs nor blue spot) somewhere serene with luther vandross playing in the background, a table for two obviously. Probably you both have a light meal and the guy orders a bottle of champagne to celebrate an expected answer. After enjoying the meal, he starts the sweet talk of how she's the only t.v station in his television, the only strand of hair on his head, the only honey(sorry sugar leads to diabetes) in his tea, the only groundnut in his garri and all those lie lie. Then you lean forward, a few would kneel and with their puffy lips those words would come out "will you marry me". Please i strongly advice men don't try to pull stunts like in american movies where a guy might put an engagement ring in the girls drink or in her food then she'll spit it out and ask "what is this", the dude will then ask "will you marry me". Abeg no try am. Our Nigerian girls haven't attained that level and don't intend to( i support them o). They'll ask you "ah ah you wan kill me, what if i swallowed it nko.

Really, how should a man ask the question; is it after a lengthy courtship, when the intuition says she's the one, when your mother brings a lady for you. HOW?

Sitting on the the fifth row and trying to take a glance at the couple was quite difficult because of all the ashebi women and their satellite gele obstructing my view. I could still manage to see the couple say those words "I DO". Words said without confusion, complete dexterity, and perfect smile; one they perfected when the officiating reverend father said "you may kiss the bride". I almost thought i felt tears in my eyes but i sure wished it was me saying i do.