Ok, I admit it, I watch way too many episodes of "Say Yes To The Dress" (SYTTD). Under the pretext of it being important to find the moments to spend quality family time together, and the parental responsibility to watch TV with your children so that you are aware of their viewing fare and can speak to any issues or questions that may arise. Granted, this was much more important when they were less than 10 years old, but some habits die hard. For those of you who are initiated to SYTTD, the following will make a lot more sense - and for those of you who are uninitiated - for the love of god, please don't start now (especially not on my suggestion).
A frequent theme that is often intermingled amidst the trials, tribulations, trauma and tears that is the foundation of wedding dress shopping (universally, not just at Kleinfeld's, I suspect), is the emotional baggage of an ailing parent (most often cancer) who may or may not be able to make it to the wedding. Rest assured, I have yet to see an episode where the health-compromised parent/grandparent was NOT able to make it to the ceremony (and I've seen more than a few). Television loves a happy ending, but a wedding dress shopping show REALLY loves a happy ending. And if Randy isn't the embodiment of all that is right in the world of style, fashion sense, and psychological insight - I don't know who is.
I can now connect in a new way with the daughters and fathers (and mothers, but mostly fathers) of those brides-to-be who worried that maybe they wouldn't get to walk down the aisle on their daddy's arm, as they make the classic metaphoric transition from being a daughter to being a wife/mate. I can imagine the painful possibility that the man who was her first love won't be there to devotedly participate in the introduction of the next love in her life - not a replacement, just a new kind of partner, teammate, ally and cheerleader that her father has been for all these years up to this day.
Through the wonders/good fortune of modern science, and much love/support, I too will walk down the aisle with my daughter (#3 and #4). I never doubted that I would have that privilege, and hope that it was never a concern for either of them. Among the many life moments that I am grateful to be able to celebrate for all the days to come, this wedding one goes on the list. And a special wish/congratulations goes out to all of my SYTTD brethren who also will have the joy of that occasion. It is unparalleled in the pantheon of "daddy" life experiences, and one I am fortunate to look forward to.
