WEDDING BELLS....CAN IT BE TRUE?


Just over two years ago now, my daughter Caitlin began dating a seemingly fine young fellow named Rocky. When she brought him home to meet me for the first time, I was quite impressed. Rocky was polite, clean-cut, and articulate. He made appropriate eye contact, smiled affably, and had a nice firm handshake. He seemed to be a bright and industrious lad.

Of course, it took me a little while to make sure that he really WAS a fine young fellow, and that he wasn't pulling an Eddie Haskel on me. After all, it is my job, as a father, to be something of a professional skeptic. Although I may not always be particularly vocal about my initial impressions, I am not easily won over. Just because a young fellow doesn't have his hat on sideways doesn't mean that he automatically passes muster with me.

As I got to know Caitlin's new beau over the next couple of years, I found him to be as good as advertised. I found him to be honest, responsible and reliable. The more he appeared at our home--which became a very frequent occurrence indeed--the more I liked him. He revealed himself to be an old-fashioned gentleman. Most importantly, he treated my daughter with concern and respect. As I watched their relationship develop, it became abundantly clear to me that they were in love.

I was thus not entirely surprised a month or so ago when Rocky asked for a private meeting with me. Once we were alone, he told me that he planned to ask for my daughter's hand in marriage, and that we wanted to ask for my approval. I must say that I appreciated that gesture very much. How many young men do that these days? And, since Rocky and Caitlin are both adults who are in love and seem to know what they want, how could I do anything other than to give my unqualified blessing?

And so it is that, one week ago today, Caitlin and Rocky became engaged. They will be married next June, shortly after Caitlin finishes her junior year at Bellarmine University. She is determined to finish school on schedule, and Rocky totally supports her in that goal.

It seems unbelievable to me that Caitlin is now engaged. It truly feels as if one moment she was playing with dolls, and the next she was all grown up. Such is the way of the world, I suppose.

In any event, I am pleased for Caitlin and Rocky. I think that their future looks extremely bright, and I am excited for them.