There is a church in Ireland that was ready for a wedding. The couple sat up front, waiting for the music to begin when a song they were not expecting started. One woman stood up and lifted her voice.
"Stand by me..."
Then a sister. A bridesmaid. Her father. One by one people joined the chorus of those who support their marriage. The bride and groom wiped away tears before the ceremony even began, watching their family and closest friends serenading them.
A few years ago when Benjamin still came to church, he spiraled into a fit part way through the service. John took him outside, staying close enough to keep an eye on him but far away enough to not get whacked. A friend in the congregation came out and stood beside John. No words, just a steady presence while a father watched his youngest son unspool.
Sometimes it is all we can offer. We cannot undo the death, or the diagnosis, or the uncertainty. But we can be close enough to be a witness to the pain, and in that small act bring color to a dark time.
