I have just returned from attending the North American Vegetarian Society’s Vegetarian Summerfest for the second year in a row. I wrote about last year’s experience here and just as I knew it would be, it was an amazing, uplifting, inspiring and fun experience once again.
There is just nothing quite like spending time with hundreds of like-minded people, sharing ideas and amazing meals, making and listening to music, finding creative new ways to spread messages of nutrition, cooking, animal rights, etc., and this year especially, celebrating LOVE!
I met Rae Sikora and JC Corcoran last year at the Pittsburgh Airport. I was waiting for the shuttle to take me to Johnstown, PA and when I saw JC in a sweatshirt with VEGAN written on the front, I knew I had found my group. I didn’t know any of these folks before, but they made me feel welcome right away.
Throughout the weekend I got to know them better by listening to Rae’s incredible talks and by visiting the Plant Peace Daily booth and chatting with them both. I was struck by how Rae always seemed to address JC as “Mi Amor” or “My Love” every time she spoke to him. Their love for each other was so apparent and incredibly beautiful.
This year I unfortunately didn’t get to share the shuttle ride with them, but as soon as I saw Rae when I arrived on campus, we exchanged hugs and kisses and I found out the most wonderful news: She and JC were to be married on Saturday in the Adirondack Shelter on the UPJ campus. They had met at Summerfest three years earlier, so it was completely fitting that they celebrate their love with their extended vegan family at the place where it all started.
The wedding was officiated by the amazing Howard Lyman, who is always an inspirational speaker. Rae and JC wrote their own touching vows, which were heard for the first time by each other as they were being spoken out loud.
There was music, laughter, wine and a lovely cake made by the fabulous Dairy-Free Dessert Diva Fran Costigan, but even though it had the ingredients that characterize most weddings, this one stood out to me in so many ways from any I’ve ever attended. Summerfest is an amazing family and I believe the love that Rae and JC share and radiate is enough to renew anyone’s faith in relationships and marriage. It definitely had an effect on me and I know I’m not alone.
I am so honored to have been part of a such a beautiful celebration. My very best wishes to Rae and JC, two of the most incredible people I know.
Peace.
