Time flies on ‘cloud nine’

“Fifty is always an important milestone: making 50 in cricket, a nation being independent for 50 years, a person turning 50 years old. Fifty is monumental.” These were the words of Darryl Smith, at the celebration of the 50^th wedding anniversary of his parents, Rev Michael and Greer Smith.

The wonderful couple celebrated their golden anniversary on December 30 with a Mass presided over by Archbishop Emeritus Joseph Harris and concelebrated by Fr Harold Imamshah at the Fatima College chapel.  A reception followed at the college hall. Also present were Fr Christopher Lumsden and Sr Petronella Joseph O Carm.

The happy couple glowed with excitement as they renewed the wedding vows they made 50 years earlier. They were also humbled to receive an Apostolic blessing to mark the anniversary, as a pledge of heavenly favours, from Pope Francis.

At the reception, the couple’s four adult children, Darlene, David, Darryl and Dionne each gave moving tributes to their parents, thanking them for their devotion and hard work.

Eldest child, Darlene Smith-Oliver, said that over the course of 50 years, her parents have overcome immensely difficult times, and the couple was a great example of the tenacity and commitment that marriage requires.

David thanked his parents for their continuous prayers and love, saying that he always felt the power of his mother’s prayers throughout the fortunes and challenges of his day.

Youngest child, Dionne, joked about being the “lagniappe child” coming 13 years after her next youngest sibling. She added, “My parents had me late, and I grew up seeing a marriage that was wonderfully mature, and strong. Their marriage was a beautiful example for me and my siblings as we sought to channel all we had learnt from them into our own lives.”

Michael and Greer were celebrated by many of their longstanding friends, including Michael’s elder brother, Ruthven, who was his Best Man. In an updated Best Man’s speech, Ruthven lauded his younger brother and sister-in-law for being exceptional parents and wonderful marriage partners.

Finally, Deacon Michael said that the 50 years went very fast, joking that time flies when you’re on cloud nine with such a wonderful wife. – Roddy Batchasingh