Barbie Perkins-Cooper, Author

Friday, April 29, 2011 — The church is decorated with tall trees, flowers and all the elegance of a splendid wedding day.  The crowds are strolling inside Westminster Abbey. Women dressed in the finest of designs and spectacular hats. Men are adorned in morning suits. All the best for a great 21-first century couple – Prince William and Kate Middleton.

For almost a decade, we have watched the love radiating from their eyes and hearts. How desperate they tried to keep their love a secret.  Paparazzi tormented Kate when she stepped out of her car – anxious to get just the ‘perfect’ shot of her — perhaps a bit too anxious.

Today is their day! Let us all hope today is a joyous happy day for all the world, and for love.

In 1981, I watched another Royal Wedding – the wedding of Prince Charles and Diana. I gasped when she strolled towards the church with such a beautiful princess style gown, the 25-foot train gliding so gracefully behind her. During her lifetime, I admired Diana, the strength she had, the contributions she made, the generosity and love for others. Never did she turn away from a challenge. She stood tall. It is unfortunate that we lost such a beautiful, graceful Princess Diana in 1997. It is sad that she can only watch this day in our spirits and within the heart of William and Kate and Harry.

Happy Royal Wedding Day. Let us all remember this spectacular day while toasting the new Royal Couple! Let us hope their love story will be strong enough to stand the test of time, the tragedies and stress of marriage. May the paparazzi give them a bit of freedom as they grow.  Here’s a toast to Kate and William – may your pillow never know a word of anger. May your days be filled with love. And when life gives you disappointments, shower yourself with a bit of L-O-V-E.