Years ago, I officiated a wedding ceremony for a couple who had experienced many ups and downs during their 15 years together. Listening to the language a couple uses when talking about their relationship and motivation for marrying or renewing their vows is very important....

At first glance, this might look like a pretty boring photo of me standing alone in a corner, head down, looking rather miserable. But there’s so much more happening beneath the surface I can often come across as aloof before a ceremony. I stand away...