Love Conquers All

Love wins.  We know this to be true. But, over the last month, the enduring, unshakable, heart pounding, soul-shaking power of love has reflected the best of our humanity and the importance of beauty found in everyday moments.

1. Our news feeds share heartbreaking images and stories as couples postponed or alter wedding plans -- the culmination of months (and sometimes, years) of training. And, the outward representative of a love story shared by two. That dream dashed can be emotionally devastating. And, exhausting!  Imagine contacting and rescheduling the event site, catering, florist, musicians, photographer, wedding cake baker, and more. Well, a group of the South Shore’s top wedding vendors stepped up to volunteer expertise and support. Kate Murtaugh of Kate Murtaugh Events said, “Over seven days, we’ve had 17 wedding planners provide guidance to over 50 engaged couples impacted by COVID-19. Planners answered challenging questions; shared expertise and creative ideas on postponements; and offered suggestions to manage nearly 8,000 estimated wedding guests at venues across the country. Despite the heartbreak of their situations, these couples were gracious and open-minded and left a lasting impression on us all.” In gratitude, the couples donated to Project Bread, ArtsBoston’s Boston Artist Relief Fund, and Boston Center for the Arts. Paying forward Kate Murtagh and her colleagues’ beautiful acts of kindness.

2. A Boston designer known for the design of his beautiful wedding dresses, has switched gears and shifted resources for frontline health care heroes. “It makes me feel incredibly blessed to be able to help”, said designer Daniel Faucher, who turned his South End studio into a mask-making salon. And, while they may not be his most elegant pieces, we agree they’re beauty to behold.

3. Jen Andonian and Matt Shearer, two epidemiologists on the frontlines of COVID-19 looked forward to a Michigan wedding after seven years of courtship. But, to lead by example for family and friends, they cancelled their wedding -- with hopes for a future celebration. Jen’s co-workers at Mass General Hospital would have none of that! And, despite long workdays, the couple and colleagues created an unforgettable ceremony in MGH’s historic Ether Dome.  Surrounded by flowers and vanilla cupcakes, and the sounds of a music playlist, Jen and Matt were married by Nurse Eileen Searle -- who had applied for a one-day state certificate to perform the ceremony. Their small guest list wore medical masks and stood six feet apart to comply with guidelines on public gatherings. But close enough to hear Jen and Matt vow: "Above all I will give you my love freely and unconditionally. I pledge this to you for all the days of our lives.” And, with a lifetime of love ensured, the new couple and their colleagues went back to to work to ensure our health and safety.

4. And, finally, this romantic gem on dating in the time of COVID. The tale of Jeremy Cohen and the dancing girl on the rooftops of Brooklyn: https://www.cbsnews.com/video/finding-love-during-the-coronavirus-outbreak/

He proves that love -- with the help of a drone and plastic bubble -- can conquer all!