These are the vows that we took with the person that was our mate but has now gone to the land of our ancestors. He was a Marine. With him We learned to be strong yet weak for he gave us the courage to be vulnerable with a strong man.
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Officiant: We come here today to witness the union of these two brave souls. Do you come forth today to unite with each other?
Couple: We do.
Officiant: Why do you wish to do so?
Bride: Beloved, when I first saw you, I knew that you were strong enough to my mate, my match, my companion, a lover who would not break beneath my desires nor flinch from my intensity. I knew also that you were honorable and would respect me as I am. You are as awa-inspiring as a great city under siege. I value you as no other in the world.
Groom: Beloved, when I first saw you, I knew that you were my mate and match in every way, a lover who would not cling but stand independently at my side. I knew also that you were stalwart and constant, able to be firm in your word. You are as beautiful and terrible as an army poised for battle. I respect and desire you as no other in the world for the warrior that you are.
Bride: My beloved, my sword, my sword arm, are at your service, to fight at your side.
Groom: My beloved, my sword and sword arm, are at your service, to fight in your honor.
Bride: My wit and cunning are at your disposal.
Groom: My cleverness and agility are laid here for your use.
Bride: My strength will defend your back.
Groom: My power will defend your name.
Bride: I will be a shield for your hearth and hopes.
Groom: I will be a shield for your heart and holdings.
Bride: With you, I need no armor. With you, I can be vulnerable and know I will not be betrayed. I trust you.
Groom: With you, I need no armor. With you, I can be vulnerable and know I will not be mocked. I trust you.
Bride: I will be your strong right arm.
Groom: I will be your strong left arm.
Repeated by both: Repeat after me. I,____, take _____ to be my shield-mate and companion_ My life partner and comrade-in-arms. I vow that we shall be separated only by our own choice or over our dead bodies. I will strike fairly and with respect. I will be your sparring partner and keep you keen and sharp. I will never take you for granted nor belittle you. I will shore you up in times of weakness and take pride in your strength. I will love you with all the passion of a warrior and treat every night as if it were our last.
Officient: Bring forth the rings!
Bride: With this ring I claim you for my own.(place ring on the grooms finger)
Groom: I accept your claim. With this ring I claim you as my own.(placing ring on brides finger)
Bride: I accept your claim.