We Pledge Our Hearts

A Treasury of Poems, Quotations, and Readings to Celebrate Love and Marriage

Dear Reader,

Falling in love is a peak experience—fiercely private but nevertheless universal. Over time, love becomes a matter of faith. It takes trust and will for two people to stay together, to work out difficulties, to lean on each other for support, and to open to each other fully. We celebrate commitment for its strength, courage, hope, patience, and constancy. Love and marriage remake our world through the togetherness of each couple, in every day of their relationship.

These poems, quotations, and readings are offered to inform and hearten you on the day of your wedding or commitment ceremony, your golden anniversary, or any day. The writing collected here gives voice to love's many expressions—from an enchanted first glance and the throes of early passion, through the hard work of trusting and sharing, to a sure intimation of the divine. In these selections I hope you will recognize your love, whether it is brand new or long-standing.

Like love itself, these readings span the ages. The authors represent a variety of personal perspectives and cultures. Taken as a whole, the collection illuminates the universality of love and commitment. I hope, indeed anticipate, that you will find in this book ample inspiration to enhance your own ability to love. And for you who have taken, or are about to take, that great leap of faith with a partner, I hope these carefully chosen words will allow you to better appreciate the great journey that you are beginning.

Wishing you love and fulfillment,

Edward Searl