I learned that one of my clients from last year, Jim, passed away yesterday after a long battle with a brain tumor and other related illness. Jim was a wonderful man who I am so pleased I was able to come to know, even if for a short time.
So I thought I would share with you what was so special for me to document for this family. Jim and his lovely wife Sarai decided to plan a celebration in Jim’s honor while he was still in good health enough to enjoy and share in the festivities with his family and friends. It was a vow renewal ceremony to honor the love and commitment Jim and Sarai have displayed toward each other in their many years together. A true celebration of love, life, marriage, and the unmistakable bond among family and friends.
When Sarai asked me to photograph this event, she said, ‘there will be tears and sadness, and also great joy. I want it all documented. We don’t know how much time we have left with Jim and for some, this might be the last time they are able to enjoy Jim’s company.’ And I said yes so long as she knew that I most likely would have tears streaming down my face behind the camera from time to time and she sweetly agreed.
There were tears and sadness – it is a ridiculously sad situation to comprehend for this family. But more than the sadness was being witness to the beauty of how much love surrounded Jim and his family the entire day. Here are a few of the MANY moments that I was able to capture for this family on their celebratory day.
Jim as a beloved husband and father…
Jim cherishing his wife during their vow renewal celebration…
These two lovebirds re-read their wedding vows to each other with great emotion and some laughter…
The standing ovation and clapping that filled the room as Jim and Sarai walked out of their ceremony and an example of how quickly the emotions could extend from smiles to tears, and just as quickly back to smiles…
Moments of goofiness…
Moments between longtime friends and the deep gratitude Jim shared with his friends for their friendship…
Music that filled the room with energy…
Jim couldn’t get enough dancing…
Another ‘first dance’ for this longtime married couple celebrating 25 years together…
My heart goes out to Jim’s family today. I am thankful to them for allowing me to document the love of this family. This is why I do what I do – photographs help us cherish dear memories and experiences and not just in our hearts where they always remain, but having something tangible to share with and tell our stories to others. I am so thankful to have created these images for them to look back fondly on in the days and years to come.
(You can see more of their celebration in their gallery here)
