Vows
The swirling night we became as one
Fills my life in twirling, flooding bliss,
My love—who fulfills all my dreams
Of oneness with a butterfly kiss.
I take thee to be my wedded husband,
To have, to hold, to cherish ‘til death.
In sickness, health, richer or poorer
As we live the wonder of God.
Thy people shall become my people
As your God is also my God.
Your land shall become my land
And we are bound as one forever.
If we fail each other in any way,
As we meet each threat so dire
Against our happiness and love,
May God correct us with joy and peace.
—Lois Barrett ‘91