The un-chosen one

Recently being named a bridesmaid, I feel compelled to dedicate some time to thinking about the role, and what the title entails. I’m a girl who takes her obligations seriously, and I won’t be one of those bridesmaids who simply wears the dress, and holds the bouquet like a trophy. Bridesmaids are chosen because they play a meaningful part in the bride’s life, or maybe they represent a part of her past. But to take on the responsibility means you plan to be there, for support, to lend a hand, and to carry some of the load. I was also recently not named a bridesmaid, but wound up taking on a lot of the jobs that should have been delegated to the girls who were. This was probably due to my unique advantage, having the connections to various resources, and my reputation as a dependable person. Of course, since the bride is a good friend of mine, I was more than happy to help in any way that I can. But even I, completely empathizing with brides for all that they have to manage around the time of the wedding, couldn’t help but get a teeny tiny bit miffed. After all, I was a guest. I found myself asking, why aren’t the bridesmaids doing this? I know it sounds petty and immature, but where’s my reward? Not so much as a card. So ladies, remember when you’re shopping for bridesmaids’ gifts, you should really be looking for attendants’ gifts. And maybe after the dust settles and you have some time to sit and reflect, try to remember anyone who attended to some aspect of your big day, and at least acknowledge their contributions with a personal thank you. That’s all it takes…